The Children's House is a picture book about a special place where young children are respected, nurtured, and empowered. Maria Montessori opened the first Children's House in 1907 in San Lorenzo, Rome, Italy. Select quotes of Dr. Montessori are included to inspire and enlighten adult readers as they share the book with a child. Montessori principles can be applied at home, in a school setting , or out in the community. The "Children's House" is often considered to be like bees buzzing in a hive. Children ages two and a half through kindergarten work and play cooperatively together in a carefully prepared environment. Children are encouraged to be curious, independent, creative, and thoughtful. As Maria Montessori once said "The education of even a small child, therefore, does not aim at preparing him for school, but for life."