You have probably noticed that more and more parents are asking for nannies who understand the Montessori philosophy. This isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement toward a more respectful, hands-on way of raising children, and it’s making Montessori-trained nannies highly sought after.
At its heart, the Montessori method is about seeing the child as a person driven by an internal desire to learn. Instead of being the director of their day, you become their knowledgeable, patient guide. The goal is simple: to help children gain confidence and independence by letting them do it themselves.
To integrate this powerful philosophy into your daily routine, you only need to focus on three core principles.
1. The Prepared Environment
Think of your workspace (the playroom or nursery) as a teaching tool. Dr. Maria Montessori called this “the prepared environment.” It is orderly, accessible, and designed to minimize frustration and encourage self-reliance.
For nannies, this means:
- Put toys, books, and art supplies on low shelves that the child can reach. If they can get something out, they can put it back.
- Everything should have a clear home. A tidy space leads to a tidy mind and helps children focus on the task at hand.
- Give children objects that actually work, but are sized for them, such as a tiny broom, a small pitcher for water, or low coat hooks.
2. Practical Life Skills
This is where the magic happens. Practical Life refers to the simple, real-world activities that you perform every day: cleaning, cooking, grooming. For a child, these are not chores; they are meaningful work. When you allow a child to participate, you are building concentration, fine motor skills, and self-esteem.
Encourage children to:
- Be a Helper: Let them pour their own drink, set their own placemat, or scoop ingredients for baking.
- Care for Themselves: Give them time and space to try dressing themselves, brushing their own hair, or washing their hands fully independently.
- Tidy Up: A spill is not a crisis; it is an opportunity to learn to clean up. Provide a small sponge or cloth.
3. Freedom Within Limits
This is the principle that keeps everyone sane. It means the child has the freedom to choose what to work on, but the choices are limited to what you have deemed safe, age-appropriate, and available in the prepared environment.
Your job is to observe the child intently. When they are focused on an activity, avoid interrupting. Trust their process. By setting clear boundaries and then stepping back, you give them the respect they need to develop into capable, confident, and enthusiastic learners. Embracing Montessori will not only make your charges thrive, but it will transform your career.
If you are seeking to learn more about the Montessori methods, here are some great resources!
If you have any questions, please reach out to our Staffing Specialist, Melanie.