The Montessori method of education is based on the observations and discoveries of Dr. Maria Montessori. She was the first woman physician in Italy, graduating from the Royal University of Rome in 1896. From her many hours of observation she began to design activities that would help individual development of each child. Given a carefully prepared learning environment, children would work toward perfecting their concentration and inner control. Montessori is an individualized program designed to help each child reach his/her fullest potential.