“Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is aquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment"
--Dr. Maria Montessori

The MONTESSORI METHOD
The work of Dr. Maria Montessori is universally acclaimed for the manner by which it appeals to children in any culture. Materials are colorful, and set on shelves within easy reach of the children; the children are free to use the material after it has been properly presented to him; the child is responsible for the careful return of the materials to their proper places. The prepared peaceful environment develops a sense of inner-discipline in each child. Montessori means:

• Prepared environment
• Self-discipline
• Self-motivation
• Freedom with responsibility

Suggested Readings:
Paula P. Lillard: Montessori Today (Schocken Books, 1996)
Maria Montessori: The Absorbent Mind (Buccaneer Books, reprint, 1995)
Maria Montessori: The Montessori Method (Schocken Books reprint, 1989) 

Montessori Links:
American Montessori Society http://www.amshq.org/
Public Montessori Schools Online http://www.amshq.org/schools_public.htm
Montessori Schools Online  http://www.amshq.org/schools.htm
More Montessori Schools Online  http://www.toronto-montessori.on.ca/
Montessori Foundation http://www.montessori.org/
Montessori Materials for home use http://www.montessorimaterials.org/