"We do not want complacent pupils, but eager ones: we seek to sow life in the child rather than theories, to help the child grow mentally, socially, emotionally and physically." - Dr. Maria Montessori
Born in Chiaravelle, Italy in 1870, Dr. Montessori was always ahead of her time.
In 1896, she was the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome Medical School. She was a brilliant student who enjoyed studying mathematics, engineering, psychology and education. After time in private practice, she returned to the University of Rome in 1901. She was appointed as a professor of Anthropology in 1904.
In 1906, she gave up both her University Chair and her private practice to follow her calling to work with children. It was in the San Lorenzo district of Rome that she established the first "Casa dei Bambini" or "Children's House." Through her work with, and observation of, these children she designed and developed the pedagogy which became the "Montessori Method."
In 1929, Dr. Montessori founded the Association Montessori Internationale, currently headquarted in the Netherlands, to help carry on her life's work.
Over the years, she traveled extensively to the United States, throughout Europe, and India, sharing her research and creating training facilities for Montessori teachers or "directors." Dr. Montessori was a devoted advocate of peace education in children and was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949, 1950 and 1951.
Dr. Montessori passed away in Holland in 1952. Her legacy lives on through the hard work of dedicated Montessorians across the globe.
For a more comprehensive biography, we recommend "Maria Montessori: Her Life and Work" written by E.M. Standing.