As a parent, you want the very best for your child. When it comes to their education and caretaking, you want to ensure they’re in good hands. But with so many different daycare options out there, it can be hard to know which route to take. In this blog post, we look at the differences between a Montessori daycare vs regular daycare. But first, what is a Montessori daycare?
What is a Montessori daycare?
A Montessori daycare is a child care center that follows the Montessori method of education. The Montessori method is a child-centred educational approach that focuses on allowing each child to reach their full potential. At a Montessori daycare, children have the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace in a safe and supportive environment. The daycare staff provides opportunities for children to engage in hands-on learning experiences and encourages them to be independent thinkers. This type of daycare can be an excellent option for parents looking for an alternative to traditional childcare centers.
Who developed the Montessori Method?
The Montessori method was created by Maria Montessori, who was an Italian physician and educator. Montessori was born in 1870 in the city of Chiaravalle, Italy. Her father was a civil servant, and her mother was a devout Catholic. As a child, she showed an interest in Science and Mathematics. She enrolled at the University of Rome against her father’s wishes, who wanted her to become a nun. She was among some of the first women to graduate from medical school in Italy. The Montessori method has been used all over the world and continues to be popular today.
Now let’s take a closer look at the critical differences between a Montessori daycare vs regular daycare.
The first key difference between Montessori daycare and regular daycare is the educational approach. Children are typically just cared for in a traditional daycare setting with structured educational activities or lessons. On the other hand, Montessori is a type of educational program that focuses on creating a classroom where children can learn and grow at their own pace. The Montessori method was developed by Italian educator Maria Montessori and is based on her belief that the best way to learn is through self-directed activity and hands-on exploration. The key elements of the Montessori method include mixed-age classrooms, a prepared environment, individualized instruction, and a focus on practical life skills.
The second key difference is the class size. In a regular daycare, there are often much larger groups of children with several caregivers. Large class sizes can make it harder for teachers to provide individualized attention and care. In a Montessori setting, class sizes are smaller, with a lower staff-to-child ratio. A smaller class size allows for more individualized attention and care.
The third key difference is the environment. Regular daycares often have bright colours and loud noises to try and keep children entertained. However, this type of environment can be overstimulating for some children. A Montessori daycare environment is typically calmer and more soothing with muted colours and natural materials.
Another difference between Montessori daycare vs traditional daycare is that Montessori classrooms are typically more spacious and open, with fewer walls and barriers. More space allows children to move around freely. It’s important to note that every child is different, so what works for one might not work for another. Also, it’s important to visit each type of facility and see which one you think would be the best fit for your child before making a decision.
What is the daily schedule like at a Montessori daycare?
The daily schedule at a Montessori daycare is designed to provide a balance of structure and flexibility. The morning begins with a more extended period of free play, followed by a group activity such as singing or stories. Free play is followed by snack time and another free play period. After lunch, the afternoon includes more structured activities such as art, science, or math. However, there is still plenty of time for free indoor and outdoor play. The day ends with a group story time before pick-up. This schedule allows children to have the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace while also providing opportunities for socialization and learning. As a result, it is the best environment for young children to thrive.
*NOTE: This is just one example; each Montessori program differs.
Are Montessori daycares more expensive than regular daycares?
One of the most important decisions parents must make is choosing the right daycare for their children. There are various factors to consider, including cost, convenience, and educational philosophy. Regarding educational philosophy, Montessori daycares are often thought of as being more expensive than regular daycares. However, this is not always the case. While some Montessori programs may be more costly than traditional ones, many are priced similarly. And when parents take into account the benefits of a Montessori education, such as its focus on hands-on learning and individualized attention, the extra cost may be worth it. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to choose a Montessori daycare should be based on what is best for the child. But for parents who are looking for an affordable option that also provides a high-quality education, Montessori may be the way to go.
When it comes down to it, caregivers want what’s best for their children—including their education and caretaking. With so many different daycare options out there, it can be hard to know which route to take. Should you go with a regular daycare or a Montessori daycare? We suggest taking the time to visit each type of facility and see which one you feel would be the right daycare for your child before making a decision.
We hope you enjoyed this blog post about the key differences between Montessori Daycare vs Regular daycare will aid you in making the best decision for your child!