Montessori Philosophy

Montessori is an approach to education with the fundamental belief that a child learns best within a social environment that supports and respects each individuals unique development.

Dr. Maria Montessori, the creator of what is called “the Montessori Method of education,” based this approach on her scientific observations of young children’s behavior. As one of the first female physicians to graduate from the University of Rome, Montessori became involved with education as a doctor treating children labeled as mentally handicapped. Then, in 1907, she was invited to open a child-care center for the children of desperately poor families in the San Lorenzo slums of Rome.

She called it ‘Casa dei Bambini” (Children’s House) and based the program on her observations that young children learn best in a homelike setting, filled with developmentally appropriate materials that provide experiences contributing to the growth of self-motivated, independent learners.

A primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach full potential in all areas of life. His or her physical, emotional, social, aesthetic, spiritual, and cognitive needs and interests are considered inseparable and equally important. The Montessori curriculum, under the direction of a specially educated teacher, provides the resources and atmosphere for exploration and discovery, allows students to experience the joy of learning, promotes the development of self-esteem, and fosters respect for one’s self, for others, and for the environment.

Dr. Montessori carried her message throughout the world, including the United States, as early as 1912. An enthusiastic first response in the U.S. resulted in a reintroduction of the approach in the mid-1950’s, and was followed by the organization of the American Montessori Society in 1960.

Burlingame Montessori Inc. is a member of the American Montessori Society (AMS),