What is the programme?

Our brand new infant programme offers so much more than childcare. At our core, we are focused on developing a genuine joy for learning in little ones. This type of infant programme is known as the “Nido”, meaning “Nest” in Italian. We can offer a safe environment in which infants can explore, grow and develop to their fullest potential until they are ready to ‘leave the nest’, so to speak. The Montessori approach to education during infancy is centered on enhancing your child’s development, rather than solely focusing on entertainment.

This structured programme and unique environment are designed for infants who are sitting upright and beginning to crawl (approximately 6 months to 12 months, but every child is unique!).

When and where will the sessions take place?

Sessions will be held on the Explorers campus. We offer a carefully prepared environment which includes developmentally appropriate furniture and materials. The safety of children in our care is our top priority; simultaneously, we encourage our little ones to try new things emboldened by the guidance and support of our highly-trained educators. Our classrooms are fitted with world-class Montessori equipment and specially designed furniture to allow for free movement, such as having bars for pulling themselves up, mirrors to reflect body movements, safe sleeping areas and infant-sized tables and chairs to encourage independence.

There will be up to two sessions per week on a Monday and Wednesday from 9.30 am to 11.30 am (You could also enrol in our exciting Baby Swim Program for this group on Tuesdays from 10 am to 11 am These are not always consecutive)

. Parents, guardians, caretakers or nannies will join their little ones to enhance their experience and continue to deepen bonds through learning.

Why should you enrol your child?

With a focus on tactile and experiential learning, we are committed to teaching children ‘how’ and ‘why’ the world works as it does, rather than simply telling them. The first two years of your child’s life are critical for laying a strong foundation; this is the optimal time to boost brain development. Little ones are absorbing more information than ever, and our rich environment will undoubtedly support this.

Based on observations, teachers will introduce new materials and activities that pique curiosity and stimulate learning. Learning objectives for your child at this age include developing skills such as language, concentration, problem solving, visual discrimination, and physical coordination. Additionally, we will focus on building practical life skills that are integral to the Montessori philosophy. Such activities promote independence, strong self-esteem, concentration and social, physical and cognitive development. Some examples are as follows:

• Self-care: washing, dressing, toileting, and eating, according to each child’s individual capacity

• Large-motor activities (indoors and outdoors): climbing, balancing and more as they develop

• Fine-motor skills: reaching, grasping, picking up objects, transferring objects, using tools and utensils, doing art work

• Language: naming objects, describing actions and intentions, discussing pictures, conversation, music, and singing

• Social skills: developing manners through interactions with peers, teachers, and adult-led small group games

We look forward to welcoming you and your little one to the Explorers Schools Family!