Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female medical doctor, pedagogue and professor of anthropology, was a scientist and, by extension, an excellent observer. The Montessori method of education, which she developed based on her scientific observations of child development, is unique in its emphasis on the individual skills and needs of each child, and its combination of educational theories, psychology and philosophy. In her work, Dr. Montessori focused on removing obstacles to the child’s strong desire for independence, and helping the child achieve intrinsic, self-perpetuated motivation in life and learning.