It may feel like a daunting task if you are looking for the authentic Montessori nursery. So I prepared guidance for what you should look for when assessing an authenticity of the Montessori nursery. It’s an essential guide that will make your search easier – so you’ll soon be on track to finding the ideal space where your child can gain an authentic Montessori education experience.
Deciding on the perfect nursery for your child can be a daunting endeavour – and if you’re leaning towards Montessori, it’s essential to ensure they adhere to this method. However, finding an authentic setting that meets your needs is possible with some research and perspective!
Despite her countless accomplishments, Dr Maria Montessori’s education model sadly remains free for all to use and misuse as they please – leading some institutions to peddle watered-down versions of the “Montessori Method” which are far from what a real Montessori education entails.
The line between what is genuinely Montessori and what isn’t can be tricky to navigate. So let me help sort out the details so that the nursery you find will educate your child with true, authentic Montessori principles!
The Montessori nurseries have a unique blend of beauty and structure. There are many opportunities for children to get outside with activities like caring for plants and gardens – a vital part of developing strong minds! The teachers who believe in grace, courtesy, respect and kindness.
In Montessori classrooms, children have the unique opportunity of learning that fosters independence and exploration. They are encouraged to participate in classroom activities at their own pace. The careful furniture design brings attention to each child’s level with plentiful resources accessible throughout their day – all without ever feeling like they are “being taught,” as every moment is designed around self-discovery! The activities encourage concentration and executive functioning skills. This one-of-a-kind educational experience nourishes growth mindsets, intrinsic motivation and overall well-being both inside & outside of the classroom wall!
The Montessori classroom is stocked with a wide array of high-quality materials for exploration and learning, including wood and metal – meaning no plastic or battery-operated toys. And the directress will explain why these activities are crucial to your child’s development! For example, they can talk all about control of error and how abstract concepts are built from concrete ones based on real-world experiences. Plus, they’ll explore ideas like work being played in a Montessori context – helping parents see that their children have an environment full of creative opportunities.
At Montessori, the focus is on a warm and nurturing environment for children to explore within set boundaries. Instead of punishing them, discipline issues are addressed with natural consequences that help teach important lessons. The emphasis is placed on teaching grace and courtesy, allowing children to practise skills such as collaboration in real-world settings while still being supported by their peers and directress. There’s no need for reward charts or overpraising either – instead, it encourages intrinsic motivation, which lets each child evaluate their work without relying heavily upon approval from others! Assessment takes place through individualised observations of what they’re working on daily – helping your little ones feel confident about learning at a comfortable pace just right for them!
Next time when you assess a nursery for your child, look for the qualities I mentioned in this article. I am sure if you research hard enough you will find a Montessori nursery with staff who genuinely care about giving every child an enriching environment to learn and grow.
“In our plan for the education of young children we must create an attractive environment. Into this environment we must put everything that is good for the mind, along with an understanding and affectionate person.” ––Maria Montessori
Hi, my name is Dilia. I am the founder and managing director of Blooming Tulips Montessori Nursery. I am passionate about childcare and am doing my part to help make our world a better place by caring for, educating, and nurturing young hearts and minds.
“I believe the childcare practitioners are doing one of the most important jobs in the World; ‘They can play their part in making this world a better place by providing quality care and education for children. As a mentor and coach it is my obligation to make sure I do everything I can to create this mindset in my practitioners.’ Once this belief is internalised, that person can find meaning in even the most mundane tasks.” – Dilia Bas
Parents, Let’s work together!
“Your child is a unique individual with boundless potential and possibilities. By working together, we can unlock the doors to a life full of excitement and fulfilment. We can inspire young learners to embrace a life-long love for knowledge. From thinking mathematically to creating masterpieces, let’s nurture your child’s unique potential. Help your child to discover their capabilities and build deep personal values that will serve them well through adulthood. Let’s help them become unstoppable forces of good in the world. Together we can do this!” Dilia