Discover the Montessori Difference
Choosing the right educational path for your child is a significant decision. At Montessori 3-6 Trilingual Preschool, we invite you to explore the benefits of Montessori education and discover how it can empower your child to become a confident, independent learner. Join us in cultivating a generation of thoughtful, curious, and capable individuals who are willing to contribute to their community.
At Montessori 3-6 Trilingual Preschool, we believe that every child is unique and possesses an innate desire to learn. The Montessori method, developed by Dr. Maria Montessori over a century ago, is designed to nurture this natural curiosity and empower children. Here’s some of the reasons why Montessori education stands out as a transformative approach to learning and how it differs from daycare, childcare and kindy:
Watch Montessori Madness! today and see why Montessori is not just a method of teaching, but a way of life.
1. Child-Centered Learning
In a Montessori environment, education is tailored to each child’s individual needs, interests, and pace. Our classroom and outdoor environment are intentionally designed and prepared to encourage self-directed exploration, allowing children to choose activities that resonate with them. This personalised approach fosters a love for learning and cultivates a sense of ownership over their educational journey.
2. Hands-On, Experiential Learning
Montessori education emphasises hands-on learning through carefully curated materials that engage the senses so the hand and brain are working together. Children are encouraged to manipulate, experiment, and explore, which helps them grasp complex concepts in a concrete way. This experiential approach lays a strong foundation for deeper understanding and retention of knowledge.
3. Mixed-Age Environment
Our preschool is purposely mixed-aged. Maria Montessori created a family like environment where children of different ages learn together just like they do at home. This structure promotes collaboration, peer mentoring, and social interaction. Younger children benefit from observing older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by teaching concepts to those who are younger. This dynamic fosters a strong sense of community and belonging within the classroom. This is known in New Zealand Education and Te Ao Māori (Māori Worldview) as Tuakana/Teina. Our children can volunteer to lead karakia and news each day. It is not always age dependent we can have younger 2, 3 and 4 year olds teaching older children too.
4. Focus on Independence and Responsibility
Montessori education encourages children to take charge of their learning and develop independence. Practical life skills like the lacing frames which then set children up for success tying shoelaces. Children learn how to take care of themselves independently whether that is getting a flannel to wipe their face, getting a tissue to wipe their nose or pouring themselves a glass of water. Self care is valued. Children also learn to clean up after themselves whether that is wiping a table after eating or sweeping the floor. As the gain mastery over themselves and the environment children learn to set goals, make choices, and take responsibility for their actions. This emphasis on independence and responsibility builds confidence so they see themselves as competent and can contribute to their community.
5. Holistic Development
We believe in nurturing the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Our curriculum encompasses not only academics but also social-emotional learning and interactions, creativity, and physical development. Children engage in activities that promote self-regulation, empathy, and collaboration, fostering well-rounded individuals who are prepared for life beyond the classroom. Montessori for Life. The Virtues Project is a big part of our work to support emotional well being and social interactions.
6. Cultivating a Love for Learning
Montessori education instills a lifelong love for learning by allowing children to explore their passions and interests in a supportive environment. With the freedom to choose Montessori Materials and games and activities that excite them, children develop intrinsic motivation and a natural curiosity that extends far beyond their years at preschool.
7. Respect for all Cultures and the Environment
At Montessori 3-6 Trilingual Preschool, we promote a culturally inclusive environmental through our Cultural Calendar and Kaitiakitanga (stewardship) of our environment. Through lessons that explore different cultures, communities, and ecological systems, children learn to appreciate diversity and develop a sense of responsibility towards the planet. Through this focus on inclusivity children to be compassionate and informed members of society.
8. Teachers who love learning too!
Our teaching team are all learners too. Many of us have over 25 years in education and some are newer and embracing our Montessori philosophy and the New Zealand Montessori Journey to Excellence. We are all passionate about nurturing our children and providing a supportive learning environment for families and ourselves. We observe each child and provide the necessary support to help them thrive. This collaborative approach where we all contribute to curriculum books, individual goals and photo albums ensures that children feel valued and understood throughout their time with us.