Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook: (Montessori Classics Edition) Paperback – November 24, 2008

I am a great admirer of Maria Montessori and her teaching methods, which are revolutionary even today. In this book she describes the philosophy of freedom given to the child within the carefully prepared environment of the Montessori classroom. She also describes some of the specific teaching materials used for sensory, math, and languagev education. The materials themselves are often ingenious, leading the child to a level of achievement not seen in traditional education (for example, the child may understand advanced number concepts and begin writing and reading words at age four). A significant part of Montessori education for very young children is teaching and then expecting independent self-care and care of the environment (for example, children assist in preparing snacks, serve the snacks, and then clean up). Part of the philosophy, as stated in this book, is to allow maximum child independence with minimum adult intervention, only that which is required to initiate a child's response (for example, demonstrating an action which the child is to imitate). I am looking forward to reading more of Montessori's work. She managed, through careful and systematic observation of the child, to come to conclusions which are now being confirmed through brain research (for example, she realized that early adulthood represented a still developing brain; this has been confirmed through the most recent research). So this brilliant woman is still cutting edge 100 years after enumerating her observations.

Excited for this book

Very good information

This book is great for explaining the very basics of the montessori manipulatives and their primary function. it's good for background and knowledge into Montessori's methods and thinking (for primary aged children). It is NOT, however, a how to or instruction guide for Montessori. you won't gleen much about how to use things (other than one or maybe two basic functions) from this book. for that you need montessori albums, which will cost you a considerable amount of money.i think this book is useful to people wanting to know more about Montessori and how she came up with the manips themselves or saw the children react to them but if you're trying to emulate the montessori method in your home and need more information, your money would be better spent elsewhere. for that i would recommend: Teaching Montessori in the Home by Elizabeth Hainstock.

Easy to read quick review by Maria Montessori of her methods and the logic behind them. It gives enough detail to be a high level read but if you really want to implement the method, then its recommended to get the more detailed book "the Montessori Method" also by Maria Montessori.

This is a great overview of the method and philosophy. I especially like her conclusions that the environment determines the character of man.

This is my favorite Maria Montessori book, I love her pictures of the kids using the materials. It is great to see what a Montessori classroom looked like in her day, it helps to realize that materials were not all perfect they were well used with chips off the paint, etc. But most of all I love reading her experiences with children, she is absolutely amazing! Plus this book is much easier to read than "Absorbent mind". Definitely recommend this book.

A short and incisive guide to pedagogy for small children. A must-read for anyone who has children or wants to work with children.

I heard about Montessori from a friend who’s child has just started at a Montessori nursery. I was interested in the method as the idea of children being given one task to complete each rather than doing a series of free play or group activities was new to me. My son isn’t in nursery (he was previously in a non-Montessori nursery).I found it very interesting and gave me lots of ideas for things to do with my nearly 3 year old (both exercises, general things like involving him in cooking and cleaning and ideas for how to make the house a better environment for children).I also loved the mindset - that we should treat children with kindness and respect. Also that they learn from you. I already thought that, but it’s great to have it spelled out here coupled with activities based on the mindset.I’m dubious about whether my energetic little boy would ever turn into the quiet, graceful creature described here! However, I’m keen to find out. I’m sure that putting into practice some of the ideas in this journal will be positive for my kids.

This book is a goldmine. Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook contains Maria Montessori’s notes based on children aged between 3-6. It is very easy and simple to use. As an educator it is very good to use as a reference. Books is clear and very informative.

Loved being able to read the words of Maria Montessori herself. Very interesting.

Very interesting read, I could link to lecture received in university in regards to alternative approaches in early years learning.

A great read for those educationalists who want to see into the mind of one of the leading lights of alternative child led education.