Montessori is an empirical discipline aiming to study and to help the
development of the human individual from birth to maturity within the
context of his life-situation. It is an educational method insofar as
education is an integrative part of the formative process.
Dr. Maria Montessori, in discovering the role
of the Child in the formation of Man, became its helper and its advocate.
She thus generated a movement in which those involved in human sciences
and their applications can find a coordinating factor in the resulting
vision of man. Its impact within this broad and complex field has been
considerable throughout the ongoing century.
The most tangible manifestations, however, are to be found in the educational
field at large; from preparation for parenthood, childbirth and infant-care
at home and in institutions, at centers concerned with the learning process
in children from birth to three years,
three to six, six
to twelve and beyond with both normal and handicapped children.
Montessori should concern all who are genuinely interested in children and in man's future.