The first few years of your child’s life are the most important when it comes to learning. Do you choose traditional schooling and infant care or do you choose a montessori program. Montessori infant care programs offer something more than what traditional programs provide.
How Montessori Differs In Child Development
According to the American Montessori Society, in a Montessori school setting, children are free to learn at their own pace. Montessori children learn to be more capable, adaptable, and creative in exploring the world around them. They are taught to be independent so they may confidently develop in their secured setting.
Considerations When Looking For A Montessori Infant Care Program
A Love For Learning
Montessori programs instill a love for learning in children. In an infant care program, curiosity is nurtured and children learn self-care, motor skills and caring for their environment; as well as, language and social skills.
The montessori infant classroom should have a wide range of learning tools that meet the developmental needs of infants and toddlers. Each toy and learning instrument should be easily accessible for the children
Clean and Safe
When considering montessori infant care options, look to see if the environment is safely equipped with toddler gates and latches, low toddler friendly furniture, round corners and protected edges. Additionally, check for cleanliness. It is okay to inquire about the cleaning schedule and policy for ill children.
Caregiver to child ratio
Be sure to ask about the current attendance levels and the number of teachers to children that are available. Also, check with your local county/state/government about the required child:staff ratio for infant and toddler programs.
Food and dietary restrictions
Some programs offer a meal service, while others require parents to pack their child’s meals. Does your program have an option to heat meals? Are they able to accommodate dietary restrictions? If your child has any allergies or restrictions, be sure to speak with the program director.
Accreditations & Certifications
What accreditations, certifications and professional education does the staff hold?
Check-in and Check-Out procedures
What are the check-in and check-out procedures for your center? Do they use a sign-in sheet and computer program? How is the entrance accessed? Is there a secure reception area?