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The Montessori method
Maria Montessori was an Italian physician. In 1896, she became one of the first women in Italy to graduate with a degree in medicine, with expertise in paediatric medicine.
After working with ill and disabled children for some years, she founded the Casa dei Bambini, in 1907, where she applied teaching methods she had developed throughout her studies and work. This became known as the Montessori Method and is one of the most popular early years pedagogies in modern nurseries.
The Montessori method involves:
- Specially prepared environments that:
- Have different play stations that focus on different areas of learning, such as maths, science, literacy, social skills, physical development etc. Children have time to use these freely, exploring their own interests, self-learning and inspiring natural curiosity.
- Are full of toys made of natural materials that stimulate the senses and encourage creativity and problem-solving.
- Specially trained Montessori teachers. These teachers focus on supporting children emotionally. They guide children rather than instructing them and teach responsibility and self-reflection.
