Maria Montessori - The Woman, the Educator

Dr. Maria Montessori (1870-1952) was one of the most influential pioneers in Early Childhood Education in the 20th century. Her philosophy and method have become known and recognized throughout the world and have significantly influenced mainstream education.

Born and raised in Italy, she was the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome Medical School. Through her work as a doctor for young patients, she became interested in education, especially for children from birth to six years of age. She studied psychology and education, and became a great educator of the Montessori Method, which has profoundly influenced early childhood education in many countries in the world.

Today, there are more than 6000 private and public Montessori schools around the world ranging from kindergarten to high school levels. The year 2007 marks the hundredth year anniversary of Montessori Method. Montessori philosophy continues to impact today's studies of childcare, education and developmental psychology all over the globe.