Basic Philosophy and Principles
The books Maria Montessori wrote, including The Absorbent Mind (1949) and The Montessori Method (1909), describe the philosophical and pedagogical principles of her method as well as the expected characteristics and responsibilities of teachers and children that underlie its execution. Among these are the principles of the absorbent mind; the concept of the prepared environment; and the use of child-sized, didactic materials and practical activities designed for a specific purpose.