As a parent you are always looking for the best learning environment for your little one. Picking the right school can be a challenge, especially when navigating alternative education choices. Follow this guide to help you better understand Waldorf, Montessori and Reggio-Emilia education styles.
Waldorf
Based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf emphasizes education at the developmental level of the student. The coursework focuses on experiential teaching plans, helping students to get a truly hands-on lesson. Waldorf students, by the time they reach college, typically test higher than their peers in both moral reasoning and on state achievement scores. For parents considering a Waldorf school, be prepared to make the long-term commitment. Waldorf students excel more when allowed to maintain a consistent study style.
Montessori
Maria Montessori based her education style on by surrounding the student with learning materials, the student will, through both self-direct and hands-on activity, learn. When looking for the best Montessori preschools near me, take the time to see the classroom. When visiting, you will be welcomed into a room where every toy, activity, and collaborative tool encourages education. Montessori schools excel at student-first curriculum based on the students learning pace, ensuring truly in-depth understanding of the materials.
Reggio-Emilia
While lesser known than Waldorf or Montessori, Reggio-Emilia schools provide students a nurturing environment to excel with their learning. The philosophy is based on four different principles: in-depth project, emergent curriculum, representational development and collaboration. These four ideas are based on striving to understand the student as an individual before creating a lesson plan to suit their needs. When looking for a Reggio-Emilia school, be sure to schedule extra time to let your student get to know their teacher and school.
Whichever path you choose for your little one, by encouraging them to love learning, they are sure to blossom.
