Recently an earnest, brilliant, and learned Italian woman, Dr. Maria Montessori, has become famous, probably beyond her desire, for her contribution to the knowledge of little children and for the embodiment of her own and the discoveries of others in what she likes to call "a method of a new science of education." Her scientific investigations as a biologist and physician have led her to the formulation or acceptance of a doctrine of education for little children, that of carefully observed, intelligently directed self-development. The schools ("case dei bambini") for little children in Rome in which Dr. Montessori is trying out the methods and devices which she has invented or accepted for the application of her principles are attracting earnest students of education from all the world, and especially from America, and they count themselves fortunate who have the opportunity to come under Dr. Montessori's immediate instruction. Enthusiastic disciples are establishing similar schools in the United States and have formed themselves into a national society for the study and extension of the Montessori principles and methods, interest in which has been much increased by the recent visit of Dr. Montessori to this country and by the lectures which she delivered in several of the largest cities. Miss Elizabeth Harrison, president of the National Kindergarten College and long identified with the kindergarten movement in all of its important centers, was sent to Rome by the National Kindergarten Association that she might make a thorough study of Dr. Montessori's methods. This manuscript, prepared after a stay of several months of studying with Dr. Montessori in Rome, covers the following topics: (1) The principle of freedom; (2) The didactic material; (3) Exercising the muscles of young children; (4) Training of the senses; (5) The silent game; and (6) Limitations of the Montessori method. (Contains 2 footnotes.) [Best copy available has been provided.]