Why observation has an important role in the Montessori Method?
The goal of observation is on one hand to comprehend the needs of the children and respond to them and on the other, to help to remove the obstacles that children face in their growth and development.Dr. Montessori made all her discoveries about children through observation. Observation is the ‘cornerstone’ and ‘the source of the vital and developmental power’ of Dr. Montessori’s work and ‘animates the love which flows through it. ’ (Joosten, A.M.), Dr. Montessori says, ‘Observation itself is an art and has to be exercised. It is not easy. We must free ourselves from so much prejudice especially with regard to the child. Observation does not judge, much less pre-judge.’ (Montessori M., The Formation of Man). Observation is a capacity acquired through practice.
