Throughout the years, Montessori schools have grown in popularity as a result of their fresh approach to learning and development. Children who are just starting school are very impressionable and take in all they see.
Your choice of when to enroll your children in school can have a big impact on not only their learning but also their growth and success. Children need their own space and independence to learn, and Montessori schools are committed to providing them with both!
So what is the ideal age to enroll your kids in Montessori programs or schools? Answering this question depends on a variety of things, including your child’s readiness and the program’s approach to education.
What Is Montessori?
The self-directed, nature of the Montessori method is supported by experienced, caring teachers, peer leadership, and a supportive atmosphere.
Montessori education is self-paced and student-led, but it is guided, assessed, and enriched by:
- Knowledgeable and caring teachers
- Peer leadership
- A nurturing environment.
Children embrace multi-sensory learning and curiosity within the community of a multi-age classroom, which is designed to create natural opportunities for independence, citizenship, and accountability.
Students pursue their own interests at their own pace, taking the time necessary to fully comprehend each concept and meet individualized learning objectives.
When you begin to learn more about Montessori philosophy, you may notice that it contains many elements that are more of a lifestyle. Many Montessori principles can be applied at home or in the classroom.
Montessori At Home
Parents of infants and toddlers can help prepare their children for a Montessori education before enrolling their children in an early childhood program by creating a Montessori environment and implementing Montessori practices at home.
This could include being aware of what your child is absorbing during their absorbent mind stage, following their lead when it comes to playing, or providing a prepared environment for your child to explore and engage with their surroundings. Everyday activities such as:
- Cooking
- Shopping
- Going for walks
Can provide a model that teaches young children how to interact appropriately with others in their environment.
What Is the Right Age To Begin Montessori?
Because one of the distinguishing features of this type of school is the learning approach, many people believe it is never too early to begin Montessori learning.
Because most Montessori schools are preschools, the ideal age to begin Montessori education is 3 years of age. Some parents, however, choose to enroll their children in Montessori from infancy, usually between the ages of 8 weeks and 18 months.
Starting your child in a Montessori school at a young age can be extremely beneficial. Normally, as toddlers, children are left to play. Montessori education takes play to a whole new level by incorporating learning tools that can help your child develop.
Young children’s minds are extremely perceptive. Children can grow remarkably quickly when placed in an environment that guides and fosters their interests and passions.
Montessori In Infancy
Yes, babies can be raised in a Montessori environment! When infants are placed in a Montessori program, they can learn so much about the world. During the first 2 years of a child’s life, they form beliefs and make assumptions about how the world works based on their interactions and experiences with their caregivers, who can be:
- Parents
- Guardians
- Teachers
- Siblings
- Friends
The goal for these younger students is to expose them to the world, develop their trust and personality, and provide them with a foundation in sensory learning.
There are also practices for emotional and physical health, routine, and language acquisition as the child becomes more aware.
Montessori For Toddlers
Toddler programs within Montessori learning serve as a gentle transition between home and school. Physical independence is a major focus for toddler levels.
Montessori toddler activities are simple and tailored to the toddler’s needs. They commonly concentrate on goals such as:
- Self-care
- Cooperation
- Physical coordination
- Rhythm
- Social development
- Respect for other children
Montessori For Elementary Aged Children
A child is prepared in reading, math, science, geography, art, practical experience, and sensory experiences at the elementary level of Montessori. It differs from desk learning in that children participate in projects, research, and discussion while striving to become independent thinkers.
In these levels, the teacher informs the student and then guides them to learn more about the topic based on their exploration.
Ready To Enroll In Montessori?
The best age to enroll your child in a Montessori school is around 3 years old when they are most sensitive to their surroundings. During this time, children learn a variety of skills while pursuing their interests. So, look for a Montessori school as soon as you can.Mosaic Montessori Academy offers excellent learning opportunities for toddlers up to 6 years old. We are confident that you and your child will enjoy it. Why not schedule a visit to come and see what makes our classrooms so unique?
