7 Advantages of Early Childhood Education in Nursery Schools

It’s only natural for parents to want to give their children the best start in life. Education is the launch pad that will open new opportunities for your child, and in the right early education centre filled with social-emotional activities for infants, they can develop into well-rounded people.

Yes, the importance of early childhood experiences for brain development and social confidence cannot be understated.

At A Country Garden, we understand the profound impact a nurturing and stimulating environment can have on a child's development. So, let's dive into why enrolling your child in a nursery school can be one of the best decisions you can make for baby development.

1. Cognitive Development: Building Brain Power

There’s an old saying: "A child's mind is like a sponge"?

It's true!

Early experiences lay the groundwork for lifelong learning and development. Nursery schools are designed to foster cognitive growth through engaging activities that stimulate young minds.

The puzzles and games in front of them aren't just fun—they enhance memory and problem-solving skills. Storytime isn't just about listening to tales—it's about boosting comprehension and imagination. And those arts and crafts sessions? They’re working to develop their creativity and fine motor skills.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced problem-solving abilities

• Improved memory and attention span

• Better preparedness for future academic challenges

2. Language Development: Finding the Power of Words

Children quickly pick up new words far before they learn how to read or write. At a dedicated early education centre, your child will be immersed in a rich language environment that encourages communication and vocabulary growth.

Interactive reading sessions can then spark a love for books and storytelling. Sing-alongs and nursery rhymes aren't just for giggles—they enhance phonemic awareness and pronunciation. Role-playing games help children practice conversational skills and navigate social interactions, setting the stage for effective communication.

Key Benefits:

• Expanded vocabulary

• Improved communication skills

• Early literacy development

3. Social & Emotional Development in Infants: Learning to Live with Others

Navigating social waters can be tricky at any age, but nursery schools provide a safe harbour for children to learn and practice these skills right from baby development. Specialised Montessori newborn and infant playgroups near you will help children pick up the tools they need to craft meaningful relationships throughout their lives.

For example, opportunities for sharing and taking turns can help children develop empathy and a sense of fairness. Collaborating on projects teaches teamwork and cooperation. Participating in group activities can reduce social anxiety in infants, helping them form friendships and feel more comfortable in social settings.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced social interaction

• Development of teamwork skills

• Improved conflict resolution abilities

4. Building Confidence and Independence: Taking on the World

There's nothing quite like seeing your child confidently take on new challenges. Nursery schools offer plenty of opportunities for kids to build independence and self-esteem.

When children are allowed to make choices, they learn decision-making skills. Children develop a sense of self-worth and confidence in their abilities by participating in group activities and receiving positive reinforcement from teachers. Simple tasks like tidying up toys or helping set up snack time build a sense of responsibility, and celebrating small achievements boosts self-esteem, showing children the value of their efforts.

Key Benefits:

• Increased self-esteem

• Greater willingness to take on challenges

• Positive attitude towards learning

5. Exposure to Diversity: Embracing Differences

We live in a diverse world, and our children need opportunities from a young age to learn, understand and appreciate the different cultures and perspectives around them. Nursery schools often celebrate various cultural events, giving children a taste of different traditions.

Learning about different customs helps kids appreciate diversity, rather than feel overwhelmed by it. Respecting differences, whether in appearance, culture, or ability, is a vital lesson that will serve them well throughout life with a more inclusive worldview.

Key Benefits:

• Appreciation for cultural diversity

• Improved social awareness

• Broader perspectives on the world

6. Routine & Independence: Establishing Good Habits

Children thrive on routine. It provides a sense of security and helps them order their activities and growing responsibilities in the world around them. Montessori nursery schools build on this principle to establish good habits and independence through structured routines.

Following a daily schedule, for example, supports emotional development in infants, making them feel secure and understood. Self-care activities like dressing, feeding, and hygiene promote autonomy; problem-solving tasks foster critical thinking and independence.

Key Benefits:

• Understanding the importance of routines

• Improved time management skills

• Development of self-discipline

7. School Readiness: Supporting the Transition to School

Preparing for the transition to formal schooling can be daunting for children (and their parents). Nursery schools focus on making this transition as smooth as possible, ensuring children are school-ready by familiarising them with much of what they will encounter.

Introducing pre-literacy and numeracy skills through play-based learning, for example, helps children get a head start. Social-emotional activities build resilience and adaptability, and orientation programs introduce children to the school environment, making the big leap less intimidating.

Key Benefits:

• Better preparedness for primary school

• Smooth transition to formal education

• Strong foundation in basic academic skills

Explore Our Montessori Newborn & Infant Early Education Centre

Our team at A Country Garden is committed to nurturing your child's growth and development from as early as six weeks old. Whether they are a newborn baby or a growing infant, our Montessori-based programs at the Strawberry Patch ensure a safe, engaging, and enriching environment tailored to each child's unique needs.

To learn more about how our dedicated educators can support your child's journey to becoming a confident and independent learner, contact us at 07 3171 8469 or submit an online enquiry today.

Teaching Diversity and Inclusion in Pre-Kindergarten: Strategies for Fostering a Culture of Acceptance

Australia is a community built on many different cultures from countless nationalities, so fostering a sense of acceptance and understanding from a young age is more important than ever. Early childhood social development significantly shapes our children's perceptions and attitudes towards diversity and inclusion.

In this article, our team at A Country Garden focuses on effective strategies for teaching diversity and inclusion from the pre-kindergarten age, with a special emphasis on the Montessori approach. Understanding and embracing cultural diversity in early childhood education helps create a foundation for empathy, respect, and lifelong learning.

Understanding Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in Early Childhood Education

Diversity encompasses the unique differences among individuals that make us stronger as a society, including race, ethnicity, gender, ability, and socio-economic background. Inclusion, on the other hand, is the practice of ensuring that all children feel valued and accepted, regardless of these differences.

Why is inclusion important in early childhood education and social development?

Research shows that children exposed to diverse environments are more likely to develop empathy, respect, and understanding towards others. According to a study by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), inclusive classrooms enhance social interactions and reduce prejudices among children. Building such a foundation benefits their social development and prepares them for a diverse world, making inclusion a critical component of preschool education.

The Montessori Approach to Diversity and Inclusion in Pre-Schools & Beyond

Montessori preschools are renowned for their child-centred approach to education. The philosophy naturally supports diversity and inclusion by promoting respect for all individuals and their unique contributions. Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori method, believed that education should foster peace and understanding, which is fundamental to teachings that promote inclusion and acceptance.

Pre-kindergarten Montessori classrooms are designed to be inclusive, providing an environment where children of all backgrounds and abilities can thrive and learn in a way that best suits their needs. For instance, multi-age groupings in Montessori settings encourage older children to mentor younger ones, fostering a sense of community and acceptance. The Montessori curriculum emphasises hands-on, experiential learning, accommodating different learning styles and abilities, ensuring every child can participate fully.

Strategies for Fostering a Culture of Acceptance

Incorporate Diverse Materials and Resources

• Use books, toys, and learning materials that reflect various cultures and backgrounds. Research indicates that exposure to diverse materials can enhance children's understanding and appreciation of different cultures. For example, a study by the Cooperative Children's Book Centre found that children who engage with diverse literature show increased empathy and reduced bias.

• Ensure classroom decorations, such as posters and artwork, represent a variety of cultures and communities.

Celebrate Different Cultures and Traditions

·         Organise activities and celebrations that honour various cultural backgrounds. For example, celebrating cultural festivals can help children learn about and appreciate different traditions. Schools can host multicultural days where children and families share their cultural heritage through food, music, and storytelling.

·         Incorporate cultural traditions into daily routines, such as greeting children in different languages or exploring music from various cultures during circle time.

Encourage Open Conversations

• Facilitate age-appropriate discussions about diversity and acceptance. Teachers can use stories or current events to discuss these important topics as conversation starters. For instance, reading a book about a child from a different culture can lead to discussing similarities and differences.

• Encourage children to share their own experiences and listen to others, fostering empathy and understanding. Role-playing and interactive activities can also help children express their thoughts and feelings about diversity.

Model Inclusive Behaviour

• Teachers and caregivers play a crucial role in modelling acceptance and inclusive behaviour. Creating an environment where every child feels valued and included sets a powerful example for young learners. Educators should respect and appreciate all cultures and abilities when interacting with children and colleagues.

• Use inclusive language that respects and acknowledges diversity. For example, using gender-neutral terms and avoiding stereotypes in communication and activities.

Create Collaborative Learning Opportunities

• Engage children in group activities that promote teamwork and understanding. Inclusive games and projects encourage children to work together and appreciate each other's unique strengths. Activities such as cooperative art projects or group science experiments can highlight the importance of diverse perspectives and collaboration.

• Design classroom setups that facilitate interaction and cooperation, such as arranging desks in clusters or having a communal workspace.

Learn More on Inclusion and Cultural Diversity in Early Childhood Education

Teaching diversity and inclusion in early childhood is essential for nurturing empathetic, respectful, and open-minded individuals. Montessori pre-schools like A Country Garden, with our inclusive philosophy and child-centred approach, provide an excellent model for fostering a culture of acceptance.

To learn more about our offerings, please feel encouraged to speak with our friendly team today.

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.