How is a childcare program for infants and toddlers different in Montessori? What is it like to step foot into a Montessori Children’s House for preschool and kindergarten?
Montessori education raises lifelong learners. Studies have shown that time spent in a Montessori program can provide benefits that stay with them well beyond kindergarten. Below, we’ll share the goal of each program, from Nido, Toddler, to the sought-after Children’s House.
Nido is a calm, nurturing environment for babies
The Montessori Nido program, which translates to “nest” in Italian, is a distinct approach to infant childcare. You’ll notice three major themes in an authentic Montessori program for babies:
- Freedom to move: Instead of baby gear stations that restrict movement, Montessori environments feature safely defined “infant movement areas.” These spaces match your baby’s developmental need to build strength, coordination, and concentration.
- The environment is prepared to stimulate, but not overstimulate. There are no loud, flashy toys or distracting decorations. Babies are sensitive to their surroundings, and we cultivate a peaceful, nurturing space that inspires their engagement with purpose.
- Guide interactions are rooted in a deep practice of respect. Montessori guides speak slowly, move gently, and honor each child’s own interests and needs with warmth and patience.
The Montessori Toddler program respects toddlers as capable
The Montessori toddler curriculum empowers toddlers with a deep respect towards their functional independence and developing sense of autonomy. At this program level, Montessori guides empower toddlers to connect to purposeful work like hand washing, food prep and gardening. These activities comprise Practical Life, a cornerstone that is distinct to choosing Montessori.
Montessori guides support the toddler’s need to do real things because it is highly motivating to them. It’s why you’ve likely noticed they seem more interested in helping with household tasks than playing with their toys. These observations reflect their need for family inclusion and opportunity to build skills related to their overall development. Toddlers need to move, choose, and try for themselves!
The Children’s House inspires deep, lasting connections
Founder Dr. Maria Montessori designed this model of teaching to match the stages of child development. This means children are not asked to adapt; they are in a system designed around them. It’s why the classrooms look different than a traditional one. These differences stem back to meticulously meeting the child where they are in their development.
- Everything is orderly and aesthetically pleasing because that is what helps children focus.
- The guides prepare and present learning materials on the child’s level because children need agency, choice and freedom of movement.
- The materials are hands-on because that, too, is how children effectively learn.
- The curriculum was also born out of observations on what children are most motivated to focus on, and when.
Preschoolers and kindergarteners share an insatiable curiosity for mastering skills related to movement, language, and social interactions. It is also a sensitive time for refining their senses and building a mathematical mind.
N4 Montessori delivers an authentic Montessori education for independence in North Texas. Our school is growing with spots available in Toddler and Children’s House. Our Nido program is accepting families on a waitlist.