Maria Montessori Sails to America: A Private Diary of an Extraordinary Journey

In 1913, Maria Montessori, the renowned Italian physician and educator, embarked on a momentous journey to America. This journey would have a profound impact on the development of Montessori education in the United States and around the world.

Montessori had been developing her innovative educational methods for several years in Italy. Her approach, based on the scientific observation of children's behavior and development, emphasized the importance of freedom, self-directed learning, and the preparation of a carefully designed environment.

In 1913, Montessori was invited to speak at a conference in New York City. She was initially hesitant to accept the invitation, but she eventually decided that it was a unique opportunity to share her ideas with a wider audience.

Maria Montessori Sails to America: A private diary, 1913

by Maria Montessori

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	686 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	360 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Montessori's journey to America began on March 14, 1913, when she boarded the steamship "George Washington" in Naples, Italy. She was accompanied by her son, Mario, and several of her closest collaborators.

The voyage across the Atlantic Ocean was long and arduous. The weather was often stormy, and Montessori and her companions were frequently seasick. Despite the difficulties, Montessori used the time to work on her writing and to prepare for her upcoming lectures.

On April 3, 1913, the "George Washington" arrived in New York City. Montessori was greeted by a group of enthusiastic supporters, including Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison.

Montessori's lecture tour was a great success. She spoke to packed audiences in New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, and other cities. Her ideas were met with great interest and enthusiasm.

In addition to her lectures, Montessori also visited several schools and child care centers. She was particularly impressed by the work of Grace Hoadley Dodge, a prominent social reformer who had founded the New York Kindergarten Association.

Montessori's visit to America had a profound impact on her thinking. She was impressed by the country's progressive spirit and its commitment to education. She also saw the need for a more scientific approach to child development and education.

After her return to Italy, Montessori continued to develop her educational methods. She also established a number of Montessori schools around the world. Montessori education is now practiced in over 110 countries and is considered one of the most influential educational approaches of the 20th century.

Montessori's private diary of her trip to America provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and mind of this extraordinary woman. The diary is full of rich descriptions of her experiences, her thoughts on education, and her hopes for the future.

Here are some excerpts from Montessori's diary:

• March 14, 1913: "We left Naples this morning on the steamship "George Washington." The weather is stormy, and I am already feeling seasick. However, I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to share my ideas with a wider audience."

• March 17, 1913: "I am working on my lecture for the conference in New York City. I want to make sure that my ideas are clear and that I am able to communicate them effectively."

• April 3, 1913: "We arrived in New York City this morning. I am so grateful for the warm welcome that I have received. I am looking forward to meeting with educators and parents and sharing my ideas about education."

• April 5, 1913: "I gave my first lecture yesterday. The audience was very receptive to my ideas. I am encouraged by the interest that people are showing in my work."

• April 10, 1913: "I have visited several schools and child care centers this week. I am impressed by the commitment to education in this country. I also see the need for a more scientific approach to child development and education."

• April 14, 1913: "I am preparing to return to Italy. I am confident that my visit to America has been a success. I have shared my ideas with a new audience, and I have learned a great deal about the educational needs of this country."

Montessori's private diary is a valuable historical document that provides a unique insight into the life and work of one of the most influential educators of the 20th century. The diary is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the history of education, the development of Montessori education, or the life and work of Maria Montessori.

• Maria Montessori
• Montessori education
• The Montessori Method
• The American Montessori Society
• The International Montessori Council

Maria Montessori Sails to America: A private diary, 1913

by Maria Montessori

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	686 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	360 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE