This book provides a personal, day-by-day record, kept over a period of 3 years, to illuminate how one teacher brought the Montessori approach to children in a kindergarten classroom. The book's introduction outlines Maria Montessori's approach to education from birth through adolescence as one which focuses on the development of each person as a complete human being and thus emphasizes both academic rigor and personal development. Chapter 1 of the book ("On Education") introduces the teacher's educational philosophy and major characteristics of her kindergarten classroom, including classroom arrangement, materials, schedule, and the teaching relationship with her students. Chapter 2, "Class Life," examines children's adjustment during the beginning weeks of school, their growth throughout the remainder of the school year in independence, confidence, work response, ability to pace themselves and development as social beings; the author's growth in the teacher's role is also described . Chapter 3, "Language," presents journal entries that document instruction and progress in reading and writing, with a focus on the language development of four specific children. Chapter 4, "Mathematics," consists of diary entries documenting instruction and progress in mathematics using Montessori materials. Chapter 5, "Special Children," highlights the author's experiences teaching an intellectually gifted child and a child with learning disabilities. Chapter 6, "Personal Development," presents the author's reflections regarding her own professional and personal development and the personal development of her students. Six appendices include classroom schedules and materials. (KB)