If material is given to a child too soon, it seems too difficult; if too late, it is boring. If however, the time is right, it will be experienced as something the child can conquer.

Mario Montessori Jr, Education for Human Development

A child who shows a desire to work and to learn should be left free to do so even if the work is outside the regular program.

Maria Montessori, The Discovery of the Child

I would suggest that this not be taught to every child, but only to those who have shown a special interest in it either by their frequent choice of the material or their questions.

Maria Montessori, The Discovery of the Child

The child has his own laws for growth and if we want to help him grow, we must follow him instead of imposing ourselves on him.

Maria Montessori, Education for a New World