Preparation

"One might say that all their previous  education is a preparation for the first stages of essential culture - writing, reading, and number - and that knowledge comes as an easy, spontaneous, and logical consequence of the preparation - that it is in fact its natural conclusion."

Maria Montessori, Dr. Montessori's Own Handbook p 138

A Divine Command

"The child is passing through a sensitive period: a divine command is breathing upon this helpless being and animating it with its spirit. This inner drama of the child is a drama of love. It is a great reality unfolding within the secret areas of his soul and at times completely absorbing it. These marvellous activities wrought in humble silence cannot take place without leaving behind ennobling qualities that will accompany the child through life."

Maria Montessori, The Secret of Childhood p43