From a Rebellious Child to a Global Movement: Why Maria’s Story Still Matters
Though Montessori today is often associated with elite private schools, its origin is rooted in something much humbler — and far more radical. Dr. Maria Montessori created her method for the children society had overlooked. Her work was meant for all, not just a lucky few! In fact, Maria’s story and vision inspired us to create Child of the Redwoods. We believe every family deserves access to a beautiful, meaningful education, and we’re here to help make that possible.
A Rebellion is Born
Maria Montessori was born in 1870 in Chiravalle. Though obviously brilliant, Maria struggled in school, refusing to conform to the rigid, rote-learning environment. She even faked headaches to stay home!
But at age 12, all that changed when an insatiable desire to learn awoke. Fired by this new love, Maria made a rebellious choice: to pursue a technical education reserved for boys. With her mother’s support and eventually her father’s approval, she entered a path that led to becoming one of Italy’s first female physicians. She graduated from the University of Rome’s medical school and soon found her calling working with underserved children.
The Seeds of the Method
While treating poor and institutionalized children, Maria realized their desperate hunger for sensory and intellectual stimulation. Inspired by earlier theorists like Jean-Marc-Gaspard Itard and Édouard Séguin, she began to design materials and lessons to meet the needs of these forgotten learners.
Her first classroom—the Casa dei Bambini in Rome’s San Lorenzo district—was established in 1907. Children who had been labeled disruptive and unteachable transformed into calm, focused, joyful learners. Observers were stunned.
A Philosophy Rooted in Peace and Potential
Maria believed that education could bring peace to the world. Her work emphasized independence, hands-on learning, beauty, and deep respect for the child. She trained teachers, published books like The Absorbent Mind, and eventually opened training centers across the globe.
She was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize three times, and her influence continues to ripple through classrooms — and living rooms — around the world.
Montessori Belongs in the Home
While Montessori schools are now well-established globally, it’s important to remember the method began in a simple environment with materials made by Maria herself. And today, that’s exactly why the method continues to resonate with homeschoolers.
As homeschoolers, we have the opportunity to embrace the method and make it our own.
Homeschoolers embrace Montessori because:
We follow our child, observing their interest and current skills.
We use gentle, compassionate disciple techniques.
We respect our child and trust them.
We give lessons in the Montessori style - with less talking and much more modeling.
We encourage our children to spend time in nature.
We find great joy in simple toys and educational materials.
We dedicate ourselves to the greater pursuit of peace and happiness.
Montessori isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence, purpose, and deep respect for the child.
Want to Start Montessori at Home?
You don’t need to be trained or have fancy materials. You just need a desire to connect with your child—and a little help knowing what to do next.
👉 Take our free Montessori quiz or Try a free theme pack to get started.
You’re not alone. We’re here to help you bring Montessori home.
