What is the Montessori Method?
The Montessori method is an educational approach developed by Dr. Maria Montessori based on scientific observations of children. It emphasises child-led learning, hands-on activities, and prepared environments where children develop at their own pace with guidance from trained educators.
Parents across London are increasingly choosing Montessori nurseries for their children's early education. At Marylebone Village Nursery, we integrate Montessori principles with forest school practices to create a unique learning experience.
The Core Principles of Montessori Education
Montessori education is built on several key principles that distinguish it from traditional teaching methods:
1. Child-Led Learning
In Montessori classrooms, children choose their activities based on their interests. This freedom fosters intrinsic motivation and genuine curiosity.
Rather than following rigid timetables, children engage deeply with materials that capture their attention, developing concentration and self-discipline naturally.
2. The Prepared Environment
Montessori spaces are carefully designed with child-sized furniture and accessible materials. Everything has a purpose and a place, teaching order and responsibility.
- Low shelves allow children to select activities independently
- Natural materials provide sensory-rich learning experiences
- Defined areas for different activities (practical life, sensorial, language, maths)
3. Mixed-Age Groupings
Montessori classrooms typically include children of different ages learning together. Younger children learn from older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge by teaching concepts to others.
4. Hands-On Learning Materials
Montessori materials are designed to be self-correcting, allowing children to identify and fix their own mistakes without adult intervention. This builds problem-solving skills and resilience.
Benefits of Montessori Education in Early Years
Research supports the effectiveness of Montessori education for young children. Here are the key benefits:
- Independence — Children learn to do things for themselves, from dressing to preparing snacks
- Concentration — Extended work periods develop deep focus and attention spans
- Social skills — Mixed-age groups teach cooperation and communication
- Love of learning — Child-led exploration creates lifelong curiosity
- Self-discipline — Freedom within limits teaches responsibility
Montessori at Different Ages
Babies (3–18 Months)
Even the youngest children benefit from Montessori principles. In our Little Seedlings programme, babies explore sensory materials in safe, nurturing environments designed to support their natural development.
Toddlers and Preschool (18 Months–5 Years)
This is when Montessori education truly flourishes. Children engage with practical life activities, sensorial materials, and early literacy and numeracy concepts. Our Forest Explorers programme combines Montessori principles with outdoor learning.
Combining Montessori with Forest School
Montessori and forest school approaches share fundamental values: respect for the child, learning through experience, and following the child's interests.
At Marylebone Village Nursery, we extend Montessori principles outdoors. Children experience the same self-directed learning in natural environments, building connections between classroom concepts and the real world.
Learn more about our approach to forest schools for kids.
What to Expect from a Montessori Nursery
When visiting a Montessori nursery, you'll notice children working independently or in small groups. The atmosphere is calm but purposeful. Teachers observe and guide rather than direct.
See what this looks like in practice on our A Day With Us page.
- Children moving freely between activities
- Extended periods of concentrated work
- Older children helping younger peers
- Real-life practical activities (pouring, food preparation, cleaning)
Conclusion
The Montessori approach offers children a foundation for lifelong learning by respecting their natural development and fostering independence. When combined with outdoor education and sustainable practices, it creates well-rounded, confident individuals.
Experience our Montessori and forest school approach at Marylebone Village Nursery. Book a visit to see how we nurture independent learners.