The Essential Montessori

Table Of Contents

Foreword
Preface
Introduction
1. Maria Montessori: The Woman and the Method
2. Introduction of the Method into the United States
1912
1958
3. Criticisms of the Method
Answers to Some Common Criticisms
4. Adaptability of the Method
Special Education
Culturally Disadvantaged
Behavior Modification
Public Schools
In the Home
Federally Funded Programs
5. The Relevance of Montessori Today and in the Future
6. Montessori’s Views of Her Work
The First Children’s House
Sources of Inspiration
The Adult and the Child
The Discovery of the Child: The Absorbent Mind; Normalization; Observations of the Child; The Child and Work
The Sensitive Periods
Independence
Obedience
Liberty, Freedom, and Order
Movement and Activity
The Method
The Prepared Environment: The Children’s House; The Teacher; The Materials and the Lessons
Practical Applications of the Theory: Sensory Education; Language; Writing and Reading; Arithmetic; Imagination and Fantasy; Art and Music; Physical Education and Nature
On Education and Schools
7. Appendixes
A. Familiar Montessori Terms
B. Classroom Materials
C. A Comparison of Montessori and Traditional Pre-School Education
D. Choosing a Montessori School for Your Child
E. The Evolution of the Montessori Community
F. Montessori Informational Sources: Organizations; Other Sources; Materials
G. Montessori Teacher Education Programs
H. Research and the Six-Year Study
I. Selected Bibliography
J. Some Highlights in the Life of Maria Montessori