It is not enough for the teacher to love the child. She must first love and understand the universe. She must prepare herself, and truly work at it.

The first aim of the prepared environment is, as far as it is possible, to render the growing child independent of the adult.

The senses, being the explorers of the world, open the way to knowledge.

There is a great sense of community within the Montessori classroom, where children of differing ages work together in an atmosphere of cooperation rather than competitiveness. There is respect for the environment and for the individuals within it, which comes through experience of freedom within the community.

Play is the work of the child.

The exercises of practical life are formative activities, a work of adaptation to the environment. Such adaptation to the environment and efficient functioning therein is the very essence of a useful education.

This is the treasure we need today - helping the child become independent of us and make his way by himself, receiving in return his gifts of hope and light.