The first idea that the child must acquire, in order to be actively disciplined, is that of the difference between good and evil.
Maria MontessoriLet the children be free; encourage them; let them run outside when it is raining; let them remove their shoes when they find a puddle of water; and when the grass of the meadows is wet with dew, let them run on it and trample it with their bare feet; let them rest peacefully when a tree invites them to sleep beneath its shade; let them shout and laugh when the sun wakes them in the morning.
Maria MontessoriIf the idea of the universe is presented to the child in the right way, it will do more for him than just arouse his interest, for it will create in him admiration and wonder, a feeling loftier than any interest and more satisfying.
Maria MontessoriTo let the child do as he likes when he has not yet developed any powers of control is to betray the idea of freedom.
Maria MontessoriIf children are allowed free development and given occupation to correspond with their unfolding minds their natural goodness will shine forth.
Maria MontessoriHe who experiments must, while doing so, divest himself of every preconception. It is clear then that if we wish to make use of a method of experimental psychology, the first thing necessary is to renounce all former creeds and to proceed by means of the method in the search for truth.
Maria Montessori