To aid life, leaving it free, however, that is the basic task of the educator.

The greatest step forward in human evolution was made when society began to help the weak and the poor, instead of oppressing and despising them.

Plainly, the environment must be a living one, directed by a higher intelligence, arranged by an adult who is prepared for his mission.

Scientific observation then has established that education is not what the teacher gives; education is a natural process spontaneously carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words but by experiences upon the environment.

I have studied the child. I have taken what the child has given me and expressed it and that is what is called the Montessori method.

No one can be free unless he is independent. Therefore, the first active manifestations of the child's individual liberty must be so guided that through this activity he may arrive at independence.

No adult can bear a child’s burden or grow up in his stead.