I heard children get to run around and do whatever they want. Is this true?

Maria Montessori observed that children naturally tend to use self-selected, purposeful activities to develop themselves. Our classrooms and the use of materials is quite structured.  We have 5 areas of the class:  Sensorial, Math, Language Arts, Science/Geography, and Practical Life.  Students learn through hands-on experiences.  You will notice when you visit our school a “quiet buzz.”  During the work cycle, children are very much engaged in mastering their chosen activity.  Dr. Montessori believed strongly in “following the child.”  It is true that children are allowed to choose where they want to work; however, there is no “running around” the classroom.  Part of Montessori is teaching children grace and courtesy and proper behavior in the classroom.