"It is true we cannot make a genius," Dr Montessori wrote. "We can only give each individual the chance to fulfill his potential to become an independent, secure and balanced human being."

Maria Montessori was born in August 31 1870 in Chiaravalle, Italy and in 1894 became the first woman to graduate from medical school at the University of Rome in Italy. Maria began her work with children who were mentally retarded. In 1898 she became the director of the Orthophrenic School, a school for retarded children in Rome where she developed manipulative toys and learning materials to stimulate mentally retarded children and to educate them. Through observing these children, Maria realized these methods could also be used to educate normal children.

Through careful and extensive observation, Maria Montessori developed what is called the Montessori approach. It recognizes that a child is more responsive to certain learning experiences at particular times or "sensitive periods." Careful observation allows the Montessori-trained teacher to recognize these sensitive periods when a child is ready for a new learning experience. The teacher then can direct the child toward materials that will satisfy his/her development needs.

In 1907, Maria Montessori opened up her first school in which her method was practiced. This school became widely known and by 1912, a school in the United States opened using these same methods of education. By 1929, the Association Montessori Internationale was established.

Maria Montessori passed away in 1952, but her legacy will always live on.