When parents start exploring early education for their little ones, one question often comes up — how early can a child start Montessori? The short answer? Earlier than you might think! Montessori isn’t just for preschoolers; many Montessori early childcare centers welcome infants as young as 6 weeks old.

In this blog, we’ll dive into how early children can begin their Montessori journey, what it looks like in those early months and years, and why starting young at a Montessori early childcare center in Surrey could be one of the best decisions you make for your child.

Dr. Maria Montessori, the founder of the Montessori method, believed that learning begins at birth. In fact, she referred to the first six years of a child’s life as the Absorbent Mind stage — a time when the brain is like a sponge, soaking up every experience and sensation effortlessly.

This is why many parents are now considering Montessori childcare in Surrey BC even for infants and toddlers. Montessori isn’t just about academics. It's about building independence, confidence, social skills, and a deep love for learning — all of which can start right from infancy.

Most Montessori schools offer programs tailored to different age groups:

Age

Program Name

Typical Age Range

Infant

Nido (Italian for "nest")

6 weeks - 18 months

Toddler

Toddler Community

18 months - 3 years

Primary

Casa or Children's House

3 - 6 years

So yes — children as young as 6 weeks old can begin Montessori. Of course, at this stage, it’s less about learning letters and numbers, and more about developing motor skills, sensory exploration, language development, and emotional bonding.

At a Montessori-early childcare center in Surrey, the environment is prepared thoughtfully even for the youngest learners. You'll often find soft lighting, natural materials, and low shelves filled with safe, inviting objects. Montessori classrooms are calm, peaceful, and respectful of each child’s pace.

For infants, Montessori focuses on:

Freedom of movement: Babies aren’t confined to cribs or swings all day. They are given safe spaces to move, roll, crawl, and eventually walk.

Sensory experiences: Natural textures, soft sounds, and gentle interactions encourage development of all five senses.

Attachment and emotional care: Teachers provide warmth, security, and respect, nurturing both the child's emotional and physical needs.

For toddlers, Montessori adds:

Practical life activities: Pouring water, putting on shoes, or helping with snack time. These aren’t chores — they’re exciting for little ones who love mimicking adults.

Language development: Conversations, storytelling, songs, and naming objects are vital to helping toddlers build vocabulary naturally.

Social interaction: Children begin to practice grace and courtesy, learning how to share space, express feelings, and develop empathy.

You might wonder — is starting Montessori at 6 months or 18 months really necessary? Can’t it wait until preschool?

Starting early gives children a strong foundation. In these early years, habits are formed, personalities bloom, and learning styles develop. The Montessori method nurtures all these areas with intention and care. When children start Montessori early, they:

Build confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Learn to solve problems independently.

Develop fine and gross motor skills naturally.

Experience a seamless transition into preschool programs later on.

Many parents who enroll their children early notice how self-sufficient, calm, and curious they become — qualities that Montessori is known for fostering.

The beauty of Montessori is that it is designed to meet each child where they are, regardless of personality or learning style. Whether your child is shy, outgoing, active, or observant, the best Montessori childcare in Surrey will adjust to your child’s pace and needs.

Montessori classrooms are not one-size-fits-all. The mixed-age settings allow younger children to learn from older peers and older children to develop leadership skills naturally. Children are free to follow their interests within a structured and respectful environment, which helps them thrive.

If you’re considering Montessori for your baby or toddler, you’ll be glad to know there are several well-established Montessori early-childcare centers in Surrey offering nurturing, authentic Montessori environments.

When touring a center, look for:

Certified Montessori teachers (Association Montessori Internationale or Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education credentials).

Calm, beautifully prepared environments.

Child-sized furniture and materials.

Respectful and caring interactions between teachers and children.

Opportunities for freedom of movement and choice.

Take time to observe the classrooms and see how children engage with teachers and materials. A genuine Montessori environment will feel calm, warm, and purposeful.

Starting your child in Montessori can feel like a big step, especially if you’re thinking about enrolling a baby or toddler. Here are a few tips to help you and your child make the most of the experience:

Visit the center more than once: You’ll feel more confident when you’ve seen the daily routine and environment firsthand.

Be patient with adjustment: Transitions take time.

Embrace Montessori at home: Simple things like giving your child a choice of clothes or allowing them to help prepare snacks can align with what they’re learning at school.

Stay connected: Communicate openly with your child’s teachers. They are your partners in nurturing your child’s growth.

So, how early can a child start Montessori? As early as 6 weeks old! Whether you have a baby, a busy toddler, or a curious preschooler, Montessori offers an approach that meets them exactly where they are developmentally.

Choosing a Montessori early child care center in Surrey can give your child a gentle, thoughtful introduction to learning, independence, and social connection. And the earlier you start, the more natural these skills become for your little one.

If you’re considering Montessori childcare in Surrey, take the time to visit a few centers, meet the teachers, and see the magic of Montessori in action. You may be surprised at how much your child — even as young as a few months old — is ready to learn and grow.