Developed around the turn of the century by Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy's first female physician, the Montessori educational method consists of a specialized teaching style and expertly designed materials that combine to unlock each child's natural motivation to learn.​ 

Unlike traditional classrooms, in which teachers impose the same lessons upon a group of children organized by age, Montessori creates an environment in which the teacher plays the role of facilitator, guiding and mentoring each child, and is able to individualize their lessons based on the child's own inherent urge to learn and develop. The classroom furniture and hands-on materials are all at a level and scale that is completely accessible to the children, which allows them to assert their independence and take charge of their learning.​ 

Further, as Montessori does not segregate children by age, Montessori children benefit socially, emotionally, and intellectually from their multi-age classrooms. Younger students gain crucial social skills from the mentorship of their older peers, as well as the motivation to emulate them. Older students develop leadership skills and a habit of respectful service through sharing their knowledge with younger students. 

In short, Montessori teaches children how to learn. What is more, it does so at a critical age -- two through six years -- when their receptivity to new concepts is most keen and core aspects of their personalities are being formed. Through Montessori they discover that the will, ability, and skills to learn are inside each of them rather than provided externally. And in so doing, it helps provide a foundation of self confidence and esteem that can serve them for the rest of their lives.​ .