The history of Montessori method of education is a child-centered approach based on supporting the natural development of the whole child. This revolutionary way of teaching originated from the visionary work and research of Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 20th century, answering the question of who invented Montessori. Montessori principles continue shaping modern early childhood education.
Founder Dr. Maria Montessori
The Montessori legacy owes its beginnings to the first female physician in Italy, Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952). After graduating from medical school in 1896, she pursued specialized education studies. Her work with children with learning and developmental disabilities at a psychiatric clinic in Rome sparked observations about cognitive growth that contradicted prevailing practices.
In 1907, she established the iconic “Casa dei Bambini” (Children’s House) to test her theories about self-directed learning in a specially prepared environment. This marked the founding of the Montessori method, answering the question of when was Montessori founded. The successes she witnessed fueled the expansion of Montessori schools internationally and lasting educational impact. She dedicated her life to lecturing widely on child development.
Core Philosophies
Maria Montessori anchored teaching methods around key insights from her clinical work and classroom labs:
- Children pass through sensitive periods priming them for certain skills
- Development unfolds naturally in distinct stages
- Movement and liberty nurture the whole child
- Prepared environments activate self-construction
- Multi-age peer groupings benefit all
- Observation guides individualized learning
She emphasized respect, independence, concentration, order, and coordination. Believing education should harmonize intellectual, social, and physical needs, she designed hands-on materials supporting natural psychological growth. The Montessori approach aligned learning with real work activity to meet inner needs.
Enduring Influence
Over a century since Maria Montessori first published her revolutionary book “The Montessori Method” in 1912, over 22,000 Montessori schools now operate globally from Australia to Africa to the Americas. While early adopters included Alexander Graham Bell, Helen Keller, and Woodrow Wilson who sent their children, recent surges in interest met expanding demand for alternative education options.
Montessori’s child-centric philosophies helped shape modern emphasis on experiential learning, environmental design, and respect for developmental stages—now mainstream tenants. Ongoing research continues affirming the benefits to motivation, leadership skills, and creativity nurtured in Montessori kids.
Legacy Today
While specific materials and curricula modernize with technology advances, core Montessori principles stand unchanged as Maria Montessori’s theories and life’s work endure. Her global, interdisciplinary Montessori Associations unite communities in dedication to qualitative childhood education.
Over a century since its humble start in 1907 in Rome, Montessori education continues making tremendous positive impacts for children thanks to the pioneering spirit of its remarkable Montessori founder.