Montessori discusses the importance of the calm inner life (the soul) of the very young child. She stresses the importance of the soul's self-management, the child knowing what he needs to do, and of course, being allowed to do what he needs to do. The child can repeat the exercise or move ahead according to minimal clear and precise guidance from the teacher. [Copyright Montessori-Pierson Publishing Company (1921). The Maria Montessori Archives made this article available.]