The Montessori Approach: Learning in Harmony with Child Development The Montessori approach, developed by Italian physician and educator Maria Montessori, places the child at the center of the learning process. Maria Montessori was born in 1870 and was one of the first women in Italy to successfully complete medical school. Through her work with children, she developed a method that nurtures and supports each child’s natural curiosity and innate drive to learn. The origins of the Montessori approach lie in her work with children from disadvantaged families. In 1907, she founded the first “Casa dei Bambini” (Children’s House) in Rome, where she implemented her methods. Montessori observed that children make remarkable learning strides when provided with a prepared environment and the freedom to take initiative. This led to the concept of the “prepared environment,” where furniture, materials, and routines are tailored to the child’s developmental needs. A central tenet is encouraging independence: children should develop self-confidence and independence through self-directed action. Montessori education is globally prevalent and emphasizes the individual development of each child. The principle “Help me to do it myself” illustrates that children are seen as independent personalities in the Montessori approach, allowed to learn and discover at their own pace. They are not only expected to acquire knowledge but also to develop social and practical skills. The environment and learning materials are designed to encourage exploration and experimentation while ensuring a safe and sustainable development. Today, Montessori’s approach is implemented in educational institutions worldwide, from preschools to elementary schools. It can also be adapted for home environments, for example, through furniture adjusted to a child’s size and needs. The tiSsi Learning Tower and the Step Stool are typical examples of furniture following this approach: They enable children to participate in daily activities at eye level and foster their independence. In the spirit of Montessori education, the tiSsi® brand also prioritizes safety and sustainability, using high-quality, non-toxic materials. These aspects align with child development and promote a responsible, secure environment where children can thrive.
