A Montessori Mother

"A Montessori Mother" by Dorothy Canfield Fisher is a publication about educational philosophy written in the early 20th century. The book explores the principles and practices of the Montessori method, a progressive educational approach developed by Maria Montessori, which emphasizes child-led, hands-on learning and individual freedom within structured environments. The author serves as an observer and commentator on the Montessori system, particularly how it can be applied within the family context to enhance the growth and development of children. The opening portion of the book presents Fisher's personal reflections on her experiences with the Montessori approach, particularly her return to America after visiting Montessori schools in Italy. She describes a warm reception from friends and family who, curious about her observations, posed insightful questions aimed at understanding the Montessori method's implications for American children. Through Fisher's eyes, we get to witness the differences between conventional parenting expectations and the revolutionary concepts of independence and self-directed learning that the Montessori philosophy promotes. She expresses both admiration and skepticism regarding these ideas, setting the stage for her exploration of how they can be integrated into the daily lives of American parents seeking the best for their children. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Dorothy Canfield Fisher was an educational reformer, social activist, and best-selling American author in the early 20th century. She strongly supported women's rights, racial equality, and lifelong education. Eleanor Roosevelt named her one of the ten most influential women in the United States. In addition to bringing the Montessori method of child-rearing to the U.S., she presided over the country's first adult education program and shaped literary tastes by serving as a member of the Book of the Month Club selection committee from 1925 to 1951.