Monique
Montessori Day
Nursery

Montessori Philosophy

 

Monique’s Day Nursery believes that the Montessori method is the most efficient way of promoting learning in young children.  Its principles ensure that children become active learners, and have responsibility for their learning through their interest and play.  Montessori preferred children's play to be called work.

 

The nursery is equipped with Montessori equipment which is displayed and available to all the children in the Montessori classroom.  It is scaled to their size, and is designed to be appealing to children. Children can spend as long as they wish working on an activity.  Each activity has a specific learning focus. 

 

Staff have the skilled responsibility in their role as director/ress for the detailed preparation of the environment, detailed observation of the children, and directing children towards activities that their stage of development and sensitivity makes them ready for.  Detailed records of the children's work, developmental stage and sensitivity are kept.

 

The Maria Montessori principles are :

 

• Children have absorbent minds

• Children desire independence

• Children have sensitive times

• Children develop in stages

• Children are eager to learn

• Children should be taught through all their senses

• Children should be given the opportunity to develop their full potential

• Children should be allowed to learn independently

• Children should be given freedom and choices within a structured environment

 

Within this approach to the children's development and learning, each child must be allowed to try all activities in which they show interest, are at the appropriate stage of development for, and be supported to achieve a successful outcome.  This is central to the development of a level of confidence that allows the children to forge ahead with their learning. The Montessori approach epitomises the Characteristics of Effective Learning which are central to  EYFS  Developmental guidelines.

 

The values that are upheld at Monique's at all times are :

 

• Tolerance because it promotes patience

• Encouragement because it promotes confidence

• Praise because it promotes appreciation

• Fairness because it teaches justice

• Security because it promotes trust

• Approval because it encourages self-sufficiency

• Acceptance and friendship that helps the children find love in the world.

 

These areas help to create the purposeful atmosphere and the ethos of joyful learning that pervades the nursery.  Their combined effect is to strongly promote an ordered environment where each individual has respect for the other, as well as for the environment and activities undertaken.  The children are the caretakers of their environment and find comfort and security in its order and beauty.