Montessori or traditional nursery: which suits your child?

You want somewhere safe and kind that helps your child grow. Once you know how the two approaches differ, you can work out which fits your family.

The main differences

In a traditional nursery, teachers lead most activities. Children follow a set timetable in groups of the same age, and many of them do well with that structure.

In a Montessori nursery, children choose their own activities from a prepared room. They work at their own pace alongside older and younger children, while teachers watch and guide. Those teachers focus on independence and on each child's own interests.

What to look for

Whichever you choose, judge the quality of the setting before the label. Look for qualified staff who get down to the children's level, clean rooms, and children who seem happy and absorbed.

If you're considering Montessori, check for genuine Montessori materials and trained Montessori teachers. Some nurseries use the name and skip the method.

How to decide

Visit a few. Watch the children, talk to the staff and notice how your child reacts to the room.

At Buckingham Montessori we teach with Montessori and plan against the EYFS, the framework every nursery in England follows, so your child gets both.