Checklist for New Parents: What to Consider When Choosing a Montessori Nursery

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most exciting and rewarding journeys, but it also comes with important decisions. One of your biggest choices is selecting the right nursery for your child’s early development. If you’re considering Montessori education, you’re already on the path to fostering independence, creativity, and a love for learning in your little one.

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a checklist of key factors to consider when choosing a Montessori nursery:

1. Authenticity of the Montessori Approach

Not all nurseries that claim to be Montessori follow the method authentically. Look for:

• Accreditation: Ensure the nursery is certified by official Montessori organizations, such as the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (MACTE) or Association Montessori Internationale (AMI).

• Trained Teachers: Confirm the teachers have Montessori certifications and are fully committed to the Montessori philosophy.

• Materials and Environment: The classroom should have Montessori materials and be designed for independent exploration, following the Montessori method closely.

Nurseries that adhere closely to the Montessori principles, with properly trained staff and thoughtfully prepared environments, are ideal for nurturing a child’s natural curiosity and independence.

2. Child-Centered Learning

Montessori education emphasizes child-led learning. Consider:

• Individualized Learning Plans: Does the nursery offer lessons tailored to each child’s developmental stage and interests?

• Mixed-Age Classrooms: Montessori environments often have mixed-age groups to encourage peer learning and collaboration.

In classrooms designed around these principles like in Roots nursery, children are free to explore and learn at their own pace, developing key life skills that will serve them well beyond their early years.

3. Nurturing Atmosphere

Your child’s early experiences shape their lifelong approach to learning. Assess:

• Calm and Safe Environment: Does the nursery offer a peaceful and well-organized space where children can focus and explore?

• Emotional Support: Are the staff caring and supportive, ensuring that children feel secure and valued?

Montessori nurseries that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere can foster confidence and self-esteem in young children, helping them thrive both academically and socially.

4. Montessori Curriculum

The Montessori curriculum is designed to foster intellectual, emotional, and social growth. Look for:

• Practical Life Skills: Are children learning to be independent through activities like dressing themselves or preparing snacks?

• Sensory Development: Does the nursery offer activities to refine your child’s senses through tactile, auditory, and visual exercises?

• Creativity and Imagination: Does the program encourage artistic and imaginative play?

At roots we incorporate a balanced curriculum that supports all aspects of a child’s development, from practical life skills to creative and sensory experiences.

5. Outdoor Play and Nature Integration

Montessori education values outdoor play and connection with nature. Look for:

• Outdoor Spaces: Does the nursery have safe, stimulating outdoor areas for play and learning?

• Encourages Exploration: Are children allowed to engage with the natural world through activities like gardening and nature walks?

Access to outdoor areas and natural environments allows children to expand their learning beyond the classroom is something we at Roots strongly believe in, enhancing their physical development and sense of exploration.

6. Parent Involvement and Communication

Choosing a nursery is also about becoming part of a supportive community. Consider:

• Regular Updates: Does the nursery offer consistent communication about your child’s progress, such as regular parent-teacher meetings?

• Parent Education: Does the nursery provide resources or workshops to help parents understand and support the Montessori method at home?

A strong partnership between parents and the nursery can make a world of difference in your child’s growth, ensuring consistent learning at school and at home.

7. Safety and Hygiene

Safety and cleanliness are crucial for young children. Ensure:

• Clean Environment: Are the facilities clean and well-maintained, including classrooms and bathrooms?

• Health Protocols: Does the nursery follow strict health and safety guidelines, including first aid, emergency procedures, and hygiene policies?

Nurseries with a clear commitment to safety and hygiene provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on your child’s learning and development.

8. Location and Accessibility

Practical considerations also matter. Think about:

• Convenient Location: Is the nursery easily accessible from your home or workplace?

• Flexible Hours: Does the nursery offer flexible drop-off and pick-up times to accommodate your schedule?

For busy families, finding a nursery with a convenient location and flexible hours can make day-to-day routines much smoother.

With locations in JVC, International City, and IMPZ in Dubai, Roots Montessori Nursery is easily accessible and offers convenient hours to suit busy families.

9. Socialization Opportunities

Early childhood is a crucial time for developing social skills. Check if the nursery:

• Promotes Collaborative Learning: Does the nursery encourage children to work together and learn from each other?

• Fosters Respect and Empathy: Are children taught to respect one another and build empathy through positive interactions?

The right nursery will provide an environment that nurtures both independence and collaboration, helping children learn how to interact respectfully with peers.

10. Gut Feeling

Finally, trust your instincts. When you visit the nursery:

Comfort Level: Does the environment feel right for your child? Are you comfortable with the staff, setting, and philosophy?

Choosing the right nursery is about finding a place that aligns with your values and feels like the best fit for your family. 

Many nurseries across Dubai, like those in areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), International City, and IMPZ, offer Montessori programs that prioritize child development and parent involvement. Visiting different nurseries will give you a sense of where your child will thrive.