The Montessori "Secret"

In the Montessori Secret, Monica Sullivan Smith invites the reader to look at “Montessori” with different eyes and a different mindset. She argues that the basic Montessori philosophy can be beneficial in any environment, taking it out of the traditional classroom and school.

‘The Absorbent Mind and the Sensitive Periods; the Stages of Development and the Human Tendencies; the Child as the Teacher, the Adult as a Guide and Education as an Aid to Life: all are recognised as some of the most basic principles applied in the Montessori prepared environment. When we hear the word “Montessori” most of us think of such things as the pink tower, the perfectly prepared practical life exercises, the ellipse (for walking on the line), and golden bead materials. We are so quick to equate “Montessori” with prepared environment. In reality, Montessori developmental principles are true of every child, at all times, no matter what environment he is in. Dr. Montessori’s own work, which was not confined to a particular space, materials, or to children working only with a trained teacher, should give us inspiration for expanding our horizons.

As Montessori educators, we have not just our ability to prepare our Montessori environments and devote our lives to what we believe to be the best educational approach in the world, but also wonderful “secrets” about children that the general public can apply in their own work with children. It does not take a great deal of effort to help others understand, for example, the manifestations of sensitive periods, or the characteristics of the stages of development. By working with other professionals, those trained in Montessori can help others learn to observe children through “Montessori eyes” and respond to their needs more effectively.’