Children pass through sensitive periods of development early in life.  Dr. Montessori described the child's mind between the time of birth and six years of age as the "absorbent mind".  It is during this stage that a child has a tremendous ability to learn and assimilate from the world around, without conscious effort.  During this time, children are particularly receptive to certain external stimuli.  A Montessori teacher sees that the child is in a highly perceptive stage and introduces materials and activities that are specially designed to lead them to physical and intellectual independance.
Encouraged to focus his or her attention on one particular quality, the child works at his or her own pace - in an environment where beauty and orderliness are emphasized and appreciated. A spontaneous love of "work" is revealed as the child is given the freedom (within boundaries) to make their own choices. Montessori teachers are trained facilitators in the classroom, always ready to assist and direct.