4 Key Facts You Need to Know About Free Kindergarten

If you’re a parent in Queensland with young children approaching the age of four, you’re likely starting to review options for free kindergarten near
you.

You have some choices in front of you. In the spirit of ensuring every child gets a fair chance at a solid early education, the Queensland government has made significant investments under the banner of free kindergarten. The powerful initiative comes as an invaluable relief to countless families across Queensland, making high-quality early education much more accessible to countless families across the state.

In this article, our staff at A Country Garden are ready to answer all your questions related to free kindy in QLD, unpacking the four most important things every parent needs to know.

1. What is the Queensland Kindergarten Funding Scheme?

To implement free kindergarten education in Queensland, the state government's funding scheme is an initiative providing tuition fee subsidies for eligible children in the lead-up to Prep starting 1 January
2024. The scheme covers children the year before they're eligible to begin Prep (generally around four years old).

With the introduction of this scheme, many kindergartens in Queensland are able to offer free kindy services. Even more exciting is that parents can now find a free kindergarten near them with greater ease.

The scheme takes into account factors such as family income, geographical location, and individual circumstances, designed to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to access quality early education.

2. How Does the Funding Scheme Provide Free Kindergarten for Eligible Families?

Eligible service providers receive funding to support the costs of delivering kindergarten programs through multiple subsidies, including:

• Base Subsidy: Allocated for each eligible child enrolled, this subsidy aids services in offering enhanced benefits, including extra pay for early childhood teachers and up to two diploma educators involved in the kindergarten program.

• Gap Fee/Free Kindy Subsidy: Covers the parental fee for each eligible child in an approved kindergarten program, ensuring 15 hours per week for 40 weeks, totalling 600 hours annually.

• Service Location Subsidy: Granted to service providers in regional and remote areas for each eligible child.

• Kindy Uplift: Offered to eligible service providers as determined by the Department of Education, this subsidy focuses on addressing children's learning and development needs through proven initiatives.

• Inclusion Subsidy: Supports the inclusion of all eligible children, regardless of their diverse backgrounds or additional needs.

• Per Capita Subsidy: Available to service providers that have not participated in the free kindy program.

Long day care services or sessional kindergartens must be recognised as approved kindergarten program providers to be eligible for Queensland kindergarten funding.

3. What are the Eligibility Requirements to Receive Kindergarten Funding?

As mentioned above, under the scheme, kindergarten will be free for all eligible Queensland families, covering 15 hours per week for 40 weeks a year. To be eligible and receive the subsidy, children must be at least four years old by June 30, the year they start kindergarten. Service providers can only claim funding for each enrolled, eligible child.

Parents or carers must provide proof of the child's age, like a birth certificate, which the service needs to keep a record of. What’s more, funding applies to only one approved kindergarten program at a time for each child. Services must ensure a child isn't subsidised in two programs simultaneously. If a child is enrolled in multiple services, parents or carers must nominate which service should receive the funding.

4. What are the Major Benefits of Free Kindy in QLD?

There are a host of major benefits of this scheme that every parent in Queensland should consider, including:

• Affordability: The Queensland kindergarten funding scheme eases the financial burden on parents, making early childhood education more accessible without impacting the family budget amid the rising cost of living.

• Quality Education: Ensures that children receive a high-quality education from trained educators, fostering cognitive and social development, and laying a strong foundation for future learning.

• Equal Opportunities: Provides all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, with equal access to kindergarten, thus ensuring that financial constraints don't impede early education.

• Smooth Transition to Primary School: Prepares children for the structure and routine of primary school, focusing on their emotional, social, physical, and academic readiness.

Learn More on Kindergarten Funding From a Leading School
Near You

Give your child a head start with A Country Garden – a Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program in Toowoomba.

Embracing Montessori methods within Australia's curriculum guidelines, we provide a stimulating and nurturing environment for 4 to 5-year-olds from all walks of life. To learn more about what we have to offer, contact us at 07 4635 5448 or leave an online enquiry to learn more about our innovative kindergarten program.

Enrol now for a transformative early learning experience!

7 Differences Between Play-Based Learning and the Montessori Kindergarten Approach

An integral part of being a parent of a young child is finding the best kindergarten near you. Sadly, this is easier said than done.

There are a lot of conflicting facts about kindergarteners and their general needs out there, and taking the time to understand the nuances between different approaches available, as well as recognising your child's unique needs, is harder than ever.

Our team at A Country Garden is renowned in the industry for a commitment to excellence in early childhood education. To help parents throughout this process, we have compiled an insightful comparison between two prominent kindergarten methodologies: Play-Based Learning and the Montessori Kindergarten Approach. We’re looking to shed some light on the key differences around kindergarten reading and math games, general activity ideas, and everything in between.

What Does Kindergarten Mean?

The term 'kindergarten' is more than a mere prelude to formal schooling; it represents a vital stage in a child’s development.

Originating from the German words for 'children’s garden', kindergarten (4-6 year olds) is where young minds, like delicate saplings, are nurtured and encouraged to grow through exploration and interaction. Whether through Montessori’s structured learning or play-based activities, kindergarteners develop foundational skills in reading, math, and social interaction, through both games and exploration.

Facts About Kindergarteners: Is the Play-Based or Montessori Kindergarten Near You Best for Your Child?

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Structure

The Montessori kindergarten approach prides itself on a structured environment where every material and activity is purposefully chosen. Such a structure fosters a deep understanding of a slew of real-world concepts with hands-on teaching, such as specialised kindergarten math games and reading activity ideas.

Play-based learning, however, offers a more flexible environment, allowing each child to explore a variety of activities at their whim, often creating a dynamic and spontaneous learning atmosphere.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Curriculum & School Readiness

The Montessori curriculum is comprehensive. Children will receive a soft introduction to several practical life skills, sensory activities, language, mathematics, and cultural studies in kindergarten environments. The holistic approach ensures a well-rounded development, preparing children for the next stage of their education journey, including kindergarten math games and reading skills.

Play-based programs might offer school readiness activities, but these are often distinct from the core play activities, focusing more on social and creative development.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Learning Materials

Educators will design and implement specific learning materials in a Montessori kindergarten to teach particular concepts, from sensory experiences to mathematics. These meticulously crafted materials enable children to engage in kindergarten activity ideas that promote comprehensive learning.

Play-based learning embraces a wider array of toys and play items, engaging in reading and math games that are often less structured but more varied, encouraging creativity and imagination.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Teacher's Role

Montessori teachers adeptly guide and observe those in their care, allowing children to learn through self-discovery and exploration, but also with clear direction. Such an approach significantly differs from play-based settings, where teachers often play a more involved role, actively engaging in the children's choice of play to steer both group and individual learning experiences.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Learning Pace

Of all the facts about kindergarteners we’ll cover, perhaps the most important is that all children develop at different speeds. A cornerstone of the Montessori philosophy is to embrace this and allow children to learn at their own pace. From kindergarten to higher ages, this approach deeply respects individual learning styles and paces, not confining any child to a potentially restrictive reading schedule, math games and so on.

Play-based programs, which might sound more free-spirited, may actually hold learning to a set array of kindergarten activity ideas, potentially overlooking the unique developmental timelines of each child.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Independence

The Montessori method is synonymous with fostering independence and self-motivated learning. From kindergarten reading to practical life skills, children are encouraged to take charge of their learning journey. This level of independence is less pronounced in typical play-based settings, where activities are often more group-oriented and teacher-led.

Play-Based vs Montessori Kindergarten: Error Correction

A unique feature of Montessori materials is their built-in error correction mechanisms. These further encourage children to engage in self-assessment and correction, fostering a deep understanding of concepts and self-reliance. Parents may find this less prominent in play-based learning, where error correction often involves direct teacher intervention.

Montessori Kindergarten with A Country Garden

Choosing the right educational approach for your kindergartener is a decision that shapes their foundational years. A Country Garden offers a nurturing pre-kindergarten and kindergarten environment where your child can thrive through self-discovery and independent learning. We invite you to explore the Montessori difference and see why we are the best kindergarten near you.

Speak with our team today to learn more.

How to Choose the Best Early Learning Centre for Your Child: A Parent's Guide

One of a parent’s most important (and difficult) tasks is finding suitable childcare programs and early learning centres for their little ones. In making these decisions, you need to review their policies and procedures in childcare, navigate vacancies, enquire about the experience of their staff, and factor in all childcare fees, utilising a rebate calculator when necessary.

Without some clear direction or familiarity with this process, you can easily become overwhelmed and wonder what the right choice should be.

In this guide, our experienced team at A Country Garden aim to walk you through this critical decision-making process with ease and confidence, ensuring your choice aligns with the best interests of your child and family.

Understanding Your Child’s Unique Needs

Every child is a unique individual. Before you start the search for any early learning or childcare centre, you need to objectively assess their specific needs and preferences.

Reflect on your child's age, personality, and any special requirements they may have, such as learning or physical difficulties. You may then wish to emphasise any sustainability practices in childcare or a need for specific childcare programs focusing on Montessori teachings. Understanding these nuances will be your guiding star in finding a centre that feels like a second home to your child.

Choosing a childcare centre also means understanding the diverse landscape of available programs. From traditional setups to more modern, holistic approaches, each centre offers a unique blend of educational philosophies and methodologies.

Essential Factors to Consider in Childcare Selection

Safety and Security

Ensuring the safety and security of your child at their early learning centre is a non-negotiable priority.

A secure environment begins with the basics: controlled access points and comprehensive background checks for all staff members.

Beyond this, delve into the details of each centre's safety policies. Are there secure, child-proof gates and fences? Is there a system in place to monitor who enters and exits the facility? What about during matters like the pandemic? Are parents left asking, "Can my child attend school if not vaccinated for COVID?".

Additionally, consider the internal safety measures, such as emergency procedures, first aid training for staff, and cleanliness standards. A centre prioritising safety demonstrates its commitment to your child's well-being, providing a foundation where they can confidently explore, learn, and grow.

Curriculum and Educational Philosophy

The heart of any early learning centre is its curriculum. There is a host of teaching methods to choose from, including:

• The Reggio Emilia Approach: Focuses on child-led learning, emphasising community and sustainability practices in the learning process. Encourages children to express themselves and learn through exploration, projects & collaboration.

• Jerome Bruner’s Theory of Learning: Advocates for discovery learning, where students construct knowledge through experiences and building on what they already know.

• Vygotsky’s Theory (ZPD - Zone of Proximal Development): Centres on the concept of the Zone of Proximal Development – the difference between what a learner can do without help and what they can achieve with guidance and encouragement from a skilled partner. Highlights the critical role of social interaction in cognitive development.

• The Montessori Approach: The Montessori method emphasises hands-on, self-directed learning, focusing on holistic development. It encourages children to explore and learn at their own pace within a structured environment, fostering independence and respect for others.

Communication and Parental Involvement

Effective communication is the cornerstone of a successful partnership between parents and childcare programs. Look for centres offering robust communication channels – be it through daily logs, digital platforms, or regular parent-teacher meetings. These tools should provide insights into your child’s daily activities, progress, and overall well-being. Centres may also encourage parent participation in events, workshops, and decision-making processes to show a deep respect for the parent's role in a child’s education.

Practical Considerations in Selecting Childcare Programs

Staff and Teacher Qualifications

Qualified and experienced educators provide your child with a nurturing and stimulating environment. Investigate the staff’s credentials – are they trained in early childhood education? Do they participate in ongoing professional development? Also, consider the staff turnover rate; a stable team suggests a positive working environment, which in turn impacts the quality of care and education your child receives.

The right educator can ignite a love for learning and instil confidence in your child, laying the groundwork for their future educational journey.

Childcare Fees and Financial Assistance with the Rebate Calculator

Centres vary in their childcare fees and payment structures, so you need a clear picture of what is included in these ongoing costs. To help, you should explore the availability of financial assistance like government subsidies and rebates. Tools like the child care subsidy estimator and child care rebate calculator can be invaluable in understanding your eligibility and potential savings. Such financial clarity will enable you to make informed decisions, ensuring you choose a centre offering quality care within your budget.

Flexibility and Accessibility

Consider the centre's operating hours – do they align with your work schedule? Is there flexibility in drop-off and pick-up times? Proximity to your home or workplace can reduce commute time, easing daily stress, but some centres offer a degree of flexibility and demonstrate an understanding of the challenges modern families face, striving to accommodate and ease these pressures where possible.

Exploring Childcare Vacancies and Enrolment Process

Finding the right centre also involves practical steps like assessing childcare vacancies and navigating the enrolment process. This stage is where your research and understanding crystallise into action.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on a balance of factual research and intuitive feeling. Trust your instincts about the atmosphere and ethos of the centre when you visit. It's essential that both you and your child feel comfortable and at ease.

Explore Our Childcare Vacancies Available at A Country Garden Today

As an early learning centre offering a selection of Montessori education programs, A Country Garden has vacancies for children aged from six weeks to six years.

To learn more about our programs, contact our friendly team today.

Montessori for Babies: An Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Childcare centres offering a Montessori-based nursery program profoundly impact Australian children, giving rise to increased interest from caregivers across the country.

At A Country Garden, we wholeheartedly embrace the Montessori philosophy that seeks to awaken the joy of learning in every child, all while encouraging the physical and mental stimulation aligned with brain development in infants. 

So, if you are interested in learning more about why a Montessori approach to modern ‘baby education’ may be the right choice for your family, as well as how it aligns with national standards like the Early Years Learning Framework, here is a comprehensive guide to get you started.

What is a Montessori Childcare Nursery Program?

A Montessori Childcare Nursery Program embraces principles that respect the learning process and understand that one’s journey begins from birth. 

Unlike other ‘traditional’ forms of education, Montessori activities for babies and infants seek to prepare them with foundational skills for life, rather than focusing on simply getting through school. 

Baby education centred around a Montessori approach allows educators and caregivers to recognise the power of learning through the senses and the positive impact of supporting their capabilities. 

Montessori &The Early Years Learning Framework for Baby Education and Brain Development

The Early Learning Framework is a national curriculum to ensure a level of quality and consistency within early childhood education in Australia. The framework itself provides clear direction for educators and families to work together and better understand the different strengths, interests, strategies and support systems needed to help infants reach their full potential through physical, emotional and social development. 

Montessori baby education only enhances the Early Learning Framework by providing children of any age with carefully constructed environments, materials, and support to help them in their exploration and learning journey. Ideally, this combination of Montessori activities and the Early Learning Framework in a nursery program will foster the development of real-life skills and a lifelong love of learning. 

Baby Education with a Montessori Nursery Program

A childcare nursery following the Montessori ethos will provide a range of experiences and activities for children of ages typically between six weeks to 2 years of age, supporting body and brain development in infants. 

Here are some examples of what can be expected for your child in a Montessori childcare nursery as they reach the 3-month-old, 1-year and 18-month-old age milestones. 

Montessori Toys & Activities for Babies (3-Month-Old)

Using the environment as an educator, along with a brimming selection of Montessori activities and materials for babies, there are many excellent ways to introduce childcare nursery practices and promote infant brain development. A typical Montessori space for babies includes elements like calming colours, real-world imagery, play mats for floor time, mirrors, and a basket displaying age-appropriate books. 

Free movement is an important part of the Montessori approach for a 3-month-old, encouraging them to stretch, explore their limbs, and practice rudimentary motor functions like reaching and grasping. Montessori toys for 3-month-old babies should be something that promotes this. Toys like play gyms can also be used for a 3-month-old baby’s aural development by helping them respond to sounds and stimulants, like a rattle or bell. 

Montessori Toys & Activities for Babies (1-Year-Old)

1-year-old babies are learning so many skills at this age, from hand-eye coordination to basic communication signals. 

By providing age-appropriate Montessori toys and materials for our 1-year-olds, we can help support infants' physical and brain development in fun, engaging ways. 

Picture books, naming games, threading, knobbed puzzles, ball hammering and shape sorters are just some of the many Montessori toys and activities for babies who have hit the 1-year-old age mark. 

Montessori Materials & Activities for Babies (18-Month-Old)

As infants reach 18 months old, they will have undergone some rapid development and be ready to tackle more advanced skills within a nursery program, such as independent walking, carrying heavier objects, pouring water, collaborating with others, and recognising routines in their lives. 

Montessori materials and activities like stacking and sorting, posting boxes, opening and closing toys, and age-appropriate obstacle courses and games are fun, open-ended opportunities for infants around the 18-month age mark to further their brain development and explore the world around them. 

Our Montessori-Based Childcare Education Programs & Baby Nursery 

A Country Garden offers a wonderful program for baby education and development in our Nursery (6 weeks to 2 Years). 

We know that the first six years of a child’s life are the most important for their future development, which is why we focus on providing a holistic approach so that our babies can learn from their earliest experiences. The Strawberry Patch childcare nursery program is where we provide a safe and nurturing environment for every child, carefully aligned with national standards and regulations like the Early Learning Framework. 

For more information about our baby education and childcare nursery program, contact our team today by calling 07 3171 8469. 

What is the Difference Between Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten

Engaging your child in some form of early childhood education structure can offer a host of benefits. It lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning and personal development, not to mention introducing them to structure and new social interactions. 

In Australia, parents can choose when to begin their child’s initial, formal education with either pre-kindergarten (pre-K) or kindergarten schools near them. But what really is the difference between the two?

In this article, our team at A Country Garden explain the exact meaning behind both pre-K and kindergarten, highlighting the differences and helping parents make an informed decision.

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Meaning 

Pre-Kindergarten, often referred to as Pre-Kindy, typically refers to any early childhood education program designed for children before they enter kindergarten. To clarify pre-K meaning, it is a preparatory stage focusing on a child's overall development, including social, emotional, and cognitive skills, involving a range of play-based learning, self-exploration and sensory discovery. 

Given its flexible, non-compulsory nature, you might ask questions like, ‘What age is pre-kindergarten?’ and ‘When does preschool start?’. Typically, pre-kindergarten programs are designed for children 3 to 5 years, but they can start much earlier. For example, at A Country Garden, our Montessori-based, pre-kindergarten programs are open to children from 15 months up to 5 years.

The structure and curriculum of Pre-Kindergarten in Australia work to foster a sense of creativity and develop essential life skills like communication and cooperation. As for 'when does preschool start,' it usually begins at the start of the calendar year, but some services also accept mid-year intakes.

Kindergarten Meaning 

Kindergarten is the next step after pre-kindergarten and is more structured than pre-K, including a comprehensive curriculum that covers basic literacy, numeracy, and other foundational skills. The class activities for kindergarten often involve a mix of guided instruction, group activities, and independent play.

How old are children who attend kindergarten? As it is the first year of primary school, kindy students are typically between 4 and 5 years of age. At A Country Garden, we are one of the most popular kindy options in Toowoomba and a Queensland Government Approved Kindergarten Program. We ensure the highest calibre of education and nurturing in Australia by employing a blend of child-focused Montessori techniques along with the guidelines of the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards. For qualification, children must reach the age of four by July 31 of the year they plan to partake in the program and must participate at least two days weekly.

Pre-K & Kindergarten in the Australian Early Childhood Education System

Early childhood education consists of several stages across Australia, with certain steps varying based on the state where you live. For example, in some states, the meaning of pre-K and kindergarten is interchangeable, whereas in others, pre-kindergarten is a voluntary, before-school program, and kindergarten itself is the first year of primary school.

Each of these initial phases can play a vital role in a child’s development, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge.

General Differences Between Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten

Age Requirement: 

• Pre-Kindergarten: Children aged 3-4 years old.

• Kindergarten: Typically for children aged 4-5 years old

Curriculum: 

• Pre-Kindergarten: Whilst including five learning areas on Montessori (Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematic Cultural) there is a natural focus on Practical Life activities, all of which support the development of social, emotional, and cognitive skills. 

• Kindergarten: A more structured curriculum that includes the five learning areas on Montessori (Practical Life, Sensorial, Language, Mathematic Cultural), the Kindrgarten Program also incorporates various activities which help develop your childs school readiness, with a strong emphasis of social and emotional readiness.

Class Activities: 

• Pre-Kindergarten: Class activities are Montessori-based, fostering independence, creativity and practical life skills. 

• Kindergarten: Class activities involve a mix of Montessori, guided instruction, group activities, and independent activity and play.

Overall Goals: 

• Pre-Kindergarten: To prepare children for kindergarten by developing social, emotional, and cognitive skills.

• Kindergarten: To prepare children for primary school by equipping them with basic literacy, numeracy, and foundational skills as well as social and emotional skills.

Finding the Right Pre-K & Kindergarten Schools Near You

Choosing the most suitable pre-kindergarten and kindergarten schools near you can be a crucial decision for parents. Of course, you will need to consider your child’s age, developmental stage, and individual needs, as well as other factors like the school’s curriculum, teaching philosophy, and facilities.

As you review your options, you can start visiting schools, talking to teachers, and observing regular class activities for kindergarten and Pre-K, which can provide valuable insights into the environment and help you make an informed decision. 

If you would like to learn more about our pre-K and kindy programs available in Toowoomba, please contact us at A Country Garden today.

What is the Montessori Theory of Learning: A Deep Dive into this Progressive Education Approach

At its core, the Montessori theory and philosophy is an educational approach built around nurturing a child's natural curiosity, encouraging a sense of independence and instilling values that set the pace for their individual growth. This progressive method of education stands out with its unique and revolutionary adoption of learn-through-play theory, utilising sensory materials, and much more. 

But what exactly is Montessori education when it comes to introducing your child to this framework? How does it differentiate itself from traditional learning methods? In this article, our staff at A Country Garden have compiled some key points to help you feel more informed. 

How Did the Montessori Philosophy Develop?

To truly grasp the Montessori theory, we must first take a step back in time. The Montessori method finds its roots in the early 20th century, spearheaded by the Italian physician and educator Dr Maria Montessori. 

Montessori, observing children of different ages and backgrounds across many years of her professional career, developed an educational philosophy that strongly emphasises independence, freedom within limits, and respect for a child’s natural development, both psychologically and physically. The Montessori philosophy was born from a profound understanding of children's natural learning tendencies, hence the lean towards more learn-through-play theory.

After founding the Association Montessori Internationale, writing numerous books on the field, and receiving a slew of awards and commendations, including three nominations for the Nobel Peace Prize, the Montessori method has expanded into a proven, progressive education approach that helps children across the world. 

What are the Key Principles of the Montessori Method?

The core of the Montessori theory rests on several key principles that challenge conventional educational methods.

One of the most significant is the 'learn through play theory.' This concept suggests that children, especially at a younger age, learn best when engaged in activities they enjoy. Montessori classrooms are designed to facilitate activities that still promote independent learning and discovery, transforming learning into a fun-filled adventure rather than a mundane task.

The Montessori method is also an excellent example of progressive education. It recognises every child as their own individual, not just a vessel to cram with facts from textbooks. Learning is student-centred, fostering not just academic skills, but also social, emotional, and practical life skills. The curriculum adapts to each student's pace, eliminating unnecessary pressure and competition.

Another integral part of the Montessori philosophy is its focus on sensorial development. Children are sensorial learners; they learn best by seeing, touching, smelling, tasting, and listening. Montessori environments and curriculums are tailored to stimulate these senses and cultivate an active learning process with a selection of sensory materials and lessons.

How Does This Learn-Through-Play Theory Fit Into the Classroom?

So, how does a Montessori Education Program manifest in a real-world setting? 

Well, in adherence to the key principles mentioned above, the Montessori classroom, or 'prepared environment', is usually a hub of activity. Children, grouped in mixed ages, will engage in self-chosen work or 'work cycles'. These sets of activities involve a range of tasks and lessons that cater to different aspects of learning, each incorporating elements of independence, order, choice, freedom, movement, and more.

The role of a Montessori educator is notably different from a traditional teacher. They act more as guides, facilitating the learning process, and encouraging children to explore their interests. This approach helps foster a lifelong love of learning, curiosity, and resilience in the face of challenges.

What are the Benefits of the Montessori Method?

Fostering Self-Confidence and Independence

The Montessori method builds self-confidence and independence. By allowing children to control their educational journey and work at their own pace, particularly with sensorial development, they develop a strong belief in their own ability. Montessori education also equips children with the skills and values to tackle challenges more independently.

Promoting Hands-On, Self-Directed Learning

Montessori philosophy advocates hands-on, self-directed learning. Classrooms are filled with sensory materials for exploratory, practical learning, fostering a deeper understanding of a host of different concepts. It enables children to follow their interests, cultivating a lifelong love for learning.

Cultivating Social Development and Collaboration

Montessori classrooms hold mixed-age groups to encourage collaboration and enhance social development. Mutual interaction fosters a sense of community and cooperation. Educators will also emphasise respect for others and peaceful conflict resolution, teaching more crucial social skills.

Encouraging a Holistic Approach to Education

Montessori education takes a holistic approach. Beyond academics, it nurtures emotional, social, and sensorial development. The curriculum includes practical life skills, artistic expression, scientific understanding, and cultural awareness. It also promotes self-regulation and mindfulness, contributing to emotional maturity.

Learn More on the Montessori Method with A Country Garden

If you would like to learn more about how the progressive education principles involved within the Montessori Philosophy, please feel encouraged to contact us at A Country Garden today.