Having taught for a number of years in a Montessori environment, this book was like a breath of fresh air. From the first page I was hooked, understanding all. The book gave my staff and I may wonderful ideas for our classrooms, and made us really focus in on the importance of the Montessori method again. The best book to give to new staff members, Directresses or assistants; parents. So inspirational at a time when we were in a rut. Thank-you Paula for writing such a vailable book.

A diary account of the day by day occurances in a Montessori classroom. What is truely fascinating is the way this teacher closely observes the children and know when (and when not) to help and give assistance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is confused about how the Montessori classroom operates. It is very informative and gives you an insider's viewpoint on the Montessori method of education.

Lillard's book is great first book for parents to read to learn the basic theories. It is very much a summary of Montessori methods and an answer to many of the criticism's of Montessori up to the 1970's. Lillard quotes Dr. Montessori extensively, so much so that it seems that the reader is getting the best pieces of Montessori's own writings in a nutshell. The writing style of both Lillard and Montessori is complex, but if you stick with it, you will find great wisdom.

As a graduate student Of Montessori education at Xavier University, I have had to read MANY books by and about Maria Montessori. Lillard's book is the worst of them. It oversimplifies the Montessori Method and is incorrect in its information. Her books are so inaccurate, we are not to use them as a reference in any paper we write. Many people like to use her books to get an understanding of the Montessori Method because they are so easy to read. However, if you want accurate information, read a book by Maria Montessori. True, her books are difficult to read, but it is worth it for anyone who wants to REALLY learn about her method.

Three years ago - I was scrambling for alternatives to public schools and I NEEDED to know what a Montessori shool was all about. I read Maria Montessori's book and that explained her goals and her methods in a highly abstract manner - it left me at a loss of how a Montessori class was conducted, how it operated day-to-day. In other words, I understood the theory, but I could not visualize the application.

This book explained the practical application should look like - ie:
1. what a Montessori class should look like when you're observing.
2. What/How your child will be guided on a day-to-day basis.
3. How to track his or her progress in the absence of a report card, etc.

Fabulous book explaining Montessori (especially Elementary level--the only book to do so in clear
terms. Excellent for parents considering Montessori
elementary.