Montessori infant care is the best time to introduce your children to the Montessori Method. Maria Montessori recognized that children are eager to discover information about their world as soon as they are born, so the earlier children can be introduced to this powerful learning strategy the faster and easier it will be for them to acquire the skills they will need in preschool and beyond. More than a solution for working parents, Montessori daycare is a total educational solution that benefits children in every aspect of early childhood development.
The First 3 Years
In developing Montessori infant care, Maria Montessori described the first 3 years of life as the “unconscious absorbent mind.” During this period, children are actively soaking up as much information as they can about the world around them, how they fit into family and social situations, and developing the physical, mental, and social skills necessary to play an interactive role.
Child-Centered Care
Montessori daycare is a particular type of childhood development education that works toward the total development of your children. From working with fine motor skills to encouraging an interest in language, Montessori’s whole-child approach combines a wide range of developmental activities that engage and entertain children.
Learning Through Engagement
Engagement is one of the most important aspects of the Montessori Method. By providing small children with activities that hold their interest, Montessori works to promote an interest in learning and doing. Children with a personal interest in learning develop a healthy sense of self-esteem along with academic and social skills necessary to become tomorrow’s leaders..
A Prepared Environment
A Montessori daycare stands apart in appearance and approach. The classroom is built for the convenience of the children, with well-organized activities carefully spaced for easy access. As with other aspects of the Montessori Method, the prepared environment is uniquely positioned to help children explore their world and achieve crucial developmental milestones.
Certified Montessori
Montessori is not a trademarked name, and many daycare centers do not use authentic Montessori approaches. Some will adopt parts of the Montessori Method, but only certified facilities adhere to the Montessori Method. The good news is that authentic Montessori daycares have worked hard to be part of the Montessori Method and will happily show their credential and those of the teaching staff.
There are other infant care options out there, but only authentic Montessori daycares have the full training and approach that makes this form of education such a boon for children and parents alike.