ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the history of the Montessori approach and the reasons for its continued relevance and appeal in the 21st century. It examines Montessori’s view of child development from birth to twelve and explains some of the specialist Montessori terms used in her writing. The book focuses on the organisation of Montessori schools and the principles which underpin Montessori education across the various age groups. It also examines the principles of child-centred learning across the age groups and the role of the teacher in facilitating learning in Montessori classrooms. The book explores what children are learning in Montessori classrooms across the age groups from babies to secondary school. It focuses on the benefits of self-directed learning and the contribution it makes to children’s self-image in the context of criticism levied against the Montessori pedagogy.
