In 2007 the world Montessori community celebrated the 100th anniversary of a revolution in education.
100 years ago Dr Maria Montessori began to explore the true nature of childhood through extensive scientific observation. We proudly recognise a century of great work, inspired by these discoveries:
the purpose of education is to nurture the energies of childhood intellectual, physical, emotional, moral and spiritual so that every member of the human race can make a constructive contribution to the world
all children deserve the best possible conditions at every stage of their development
all children, in the best educational conditions develop creative and flexible minds easily adapted to the complexities of human society
all children, in the best educational conditions demonstrate innate discipline, joyful and focused work and empathy with others. They are tireless and selfless in their work.
all children possess inner directives to guide their own development
all children fully developed become individuals committed to human solidarity, social progress and peace
We declare our commitment now and in the future:
to participate in a universal social movement that places children at the centre of society, recognising them as citizens of the world
to promote knowledge and understanding of the conditions necessary for the full development of the human being from conception to maturity both at home and in society
to create a climate of opinion and opportunities for the full development of the potential of all young people so that humanity may work in harmony for a higher and more peaceful civilisation
to reform education as a reciprocal, lifelong process in which every member of the human race is profoundly engaged
Spread the word about the Montessori Centenary Declaration
Sign the Centenary Declaration on the internet: montessoricentenary.org
The signed Declaration will be presented to governments around the world in 2007.
Due to the scope of this campaign and the number of signatories, it is strongly recommended that you use the internet to sign the declaration. This can be done by filling in a simple form online at montessoricentenary.org. Use our campaign code: PRAGUE