30 years · Italy & California

Every mind can be taught to learn.

I work at the point between what a person can't yet do alone and what they can do with the right guidance — building attention, planning, and self-regulation through structured, mediated learning.

30+
Years in practice
3
Preschools founded
2
Countries served
The mediated learning bridge A diagram showing three stages: a starting point, guided mediation, and a new independent ability, connected by an arched path. CAN'T DO ALONE GUIDED MEDIATION DOES IT ALONE
The mediated learning bridge — Feuerstein's model of cognitive change
About Maria

A practice built on structure, patience, and belief in change.

Maria Signorile is a developmental and cognitive enhancement specialist with over 30 years of international experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults. Her work centers on executive function, Feuerstein-mediated cognitive enhancement, neuropsychomotor development, early intervention, and inclusive education — combining structured, evidence-informed methods with individualized mediation.

Founder

Three preschools in Italy

Founded and directed Gioco Imparo, three preschools built around autonomy, outdoor education, and early cognitive stimulation, from 2007 to 2022.

Method

Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment

Certified in PAS Basic & Standard, using structured paper-and-pencil mediation to strengthen attention, planning, and cognitive flexibility.

Reach

Naples to California

From non-profit early-intervention work in Naples to private practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, her approach travels with the person, not the setting.

Path

Three decades of practice, in brief

A working history across clinics, schools, and private practice in Naples and the Bay Area.

Present

Private Practice — San Francisco Bay Area

Individualized executive function development and cognitive mediation for children and young adults.

Ongoing

Founder & CEO, I Bimbi di Mario — Naples, Italy

Non-profit supporting children and families with neurodevelopmental challenges, using Feuerstein and Montessori-informed approaches.

2007 – 2022

Founder & Director, Gioco Imparo Preschools — Naples, Italy

Led curriculum development, staff training, and family communication across three preschools.

Earlier

Attiva-Mente Insieme, Dr. De Rose Pediatric Clinic, Kodokan Sports Association, La Scintilla — Naples, Italy

Program design and direct support for children and adults with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, and complex disabilities.

Education & Certifications

Trained across two countries, in one discipline.

Master's Degree in Educational Sciences, Specialization in Pedagogy — Università Pegaso / Suor Orsola Benincasa, Naples
Bachelor's Degree in Professional Education — Università Pegaso, Naples
Certified Specialist, Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment — PAS Basic & Standard
Certified Developmental Therapist, Neuropsychomotor & Neurodevelopmental Disorders (FSC & Castagnini Methods) — ARC Onlus, Verona
Postgraduate Studies, Education & Social Work — Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan
Certified Sport Education Instructor; Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) 40-Hour Training completed
HarvardX / edX — Early Childhood Development: Global Strategies for Implementation
De-escalation & Safety Training (CPI / Handle With Care); First Aid & CPR/AED — HSI, 2020
Publication

"Prevenire è già curare" (Prevention Is Already a Cure)

Published by Rogiosi Editore — a book on early development, prevention, motor milestones, and the importance of observing developmental sequences.

Recognition

"Evento per l'Infanzia," 2014

Recognized in Naples for dedication to children's emotional well-being and educational rights. Recent speaking engagement in Redwood City, California, 2026.

Get started

Ready to talk about what your child — or you — need?

A first conversation is the easiest way to find out if this approach is the right fit.

Schedule an appointment