Angeline Lillard

Maria Montessori, an Italian physician, made a series of astute observations concerning optimal conditions for children’s development—observations that are supported by our research today. From these she developed an education system for children from birth to 18 years of age. I will overview some of her observations and their support (such as embodied cognition and the benefits of self-determination), overview what Montessori education is, and then provide empirical evidence for Montessori’s efficacy for all children, including those low in executive function and those from lower income homes. I will also address pretend play and whether concern about its relative absence in Montessori preschools is well-placed.