MONTESSORI, REGGIO EMILIA, TRADITIONAL - WHICH EDUCATION STYLE IS RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?

Navigating the world of early education can feel like a minefield. Here’s how to choose the approach that suits your little learner best.

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As parents, we all want to give our children the very best start in life - and that includes their first steps into education. But with so many different philosophies out there, deciding where and how your child should learn can quickly become overwhelming. Should you go for a structured classroom with set routines? Or lean into play-based, child-led learning? And what exactly is the difference between Montessori and Reggio Emilia?

Each educational approach has its own strengths and the right fit often comes down to your child’s personality, your family’s values and the kind of learning environment you feel most comfortable with.

Let's take a look at the three main styles - Montessori, Reggio Emilia and Traditional - and explore what each has to offer.

MONTESSORI

Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, the Montessori approach is all about fostering independence, curiosity and hands-on learning. It’s designed around the idea that children learn best when they're free to explore and make choices within a prepared environment.

Montessori classrooms are calm, beautifully ordered spaces filled with natural materials. Everything is child-sized and within reach.

Children work at their own pace, often in small groups or individually, choosing activities that interest them. Teachers (called guides) observe and gently steer rather than instruct, encouraging children to problem-solve and discover answers for themselves.

Suited to children who thrive with structure but enjoy autonomy, Montessori can be particularly effective for children who are naturally independent, focused and enjoy working quietly on tasks.