The role of the teacher (or directress, as Dr. Montessori called her) in the classroom is manifold. Her most important job is to foster a kind of learning that satisfies the child’s need to learn for its own sake, not to please others or receive praise. She is trained to observe carefully, to know the different needs of her children and to provide a properly prepared environment for the children’s maximum growth. She demonstrates the correct use of the materials, and guides without interfering with the child’s experience. She ensures that each child progresses through the activities of each curriculum area in the classroom. She sets limits, encourages the hesitant child, diverts the child that has chosen work too difficult, and keeps enthusiasm alive. She is there when needed, but “invisible” when not needed. In other words, she follows the child.