The Montessori method of education is formed by three essential elements: a prepared environment, a prepared adult, and freedom with responsibility. This approach to education is based on the work of Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian pediatrician and teacher. Montessori through years of observation noted many common behavioral tendencies, exploration being a primary behavior of humans from their earliest point.

From exploration of the environment come impressions that shape the development of the brain. There then is a need to order these impressions for future use. Montessori developed materials that would teach the child to categorize these impressions. Sensorial materials help the child conceptualize comparative relationships such as weight and size.

The sequence of materials in a Montessori classroom orient the child to cause and effect relationships, providing them with confidence in their environment and self. Beyond the behavioral tendencies of exploration, orientation, and order Montessori found that the child must have the ability to imagine and create abstractions. Through repetitive manipulation of materials by the hands the child can work towards perfecting the abstract. The last behavioral tendency Montessori noted was the development of language.

The development of language in the Montessori classroom in comparison to a traditional classroom is unique because it allows for greater freedom of language from the minute they walk through the door. Children are able to interact verbally with peers and teachers, expressing needs or wants throughout their day. They can share interests, successes and frustrations with each other. In comparison the traditional classroom is led by a lecturing teacher with "quiet" students in chairs.

Another human tendency Montessori discovered was that we don't acquire lasting knowledge through force. A child who is allowed to pursue an interest and use his environment at his own pace will develop a stronger base for continued learning and retain this knowledge through different planes of development. When Montessori discussed freedom she also connected it to responsibility and self discipline.