Nido
8 weeks - 18 months
Available at all locations
The word “Nido” comes from the Italian word “Nest” and is meant to reflect a sense of warmth, peace, and safety. The physical environment replicates the experience a child has within his or her own home. It is simple and ordered and provides natural light.
Sense of Trust
Our infant children need to be held and nurtured in order to develop a sense of trust with the world and in those caring for them. Guides follow the infants by observing their natural schedules and allowing them to eat when they are hungry, nap when they are tired and explore when they are ready while providing a loving and safe environment.
Language Development
This environment is rich in real and precise language about every part of the daily routine, as adults in the environment are consistently describing what is happening. The infant child is absorbing language, and adults speak softly, frequently and properly, reading books, listening to rhymes and lullabies and making eye contact. This helps the child to acquire their native language and develop patterns in the brain which will be necessary in the future for reading and learning.
Freedom of Movement
Movement is important in all Montessori environments. Because this is the period when infants learn to roll over, sit, scoot, crawl and walk, the room has as many opportunities for movement. In the infant environment, there is an emphasis on strengthening muscles and developing gross motor skills. Tools include mirrors positioned close to the floor to stimulate self-discovery, low bars mounted on the wall and soft furniture to pull themselves up, and stairs with low steps and a railing to practice climbing up and down. This equipment helps to develop movement in the youngest Montessori children and lays the foundation for future cognitive development. Children who are free to move and explore learn to pursue their own interests.
From the head to the brain
Dr. Montessori demonstrated that when infants hold things with their hands, the information transmitted to their brains sets in motion a whole series of coordinated events. This learning process is deeply satisfying for the infant. Each object in the prepared environment is a potential learning tool. Objects correlate with the infant’s sensitive periods and these objects enable the infant’s concentration and hand-eye coordination, supporting repeated and sustained exploration.
“I know my child is in the best environment to meet his needs. I couldn't ask for a more loving community!”
Jane Smith
“This is the way learning is supposed to be."
Henry Baker
“Sending our children here was the best decision we’ve made as parents."
Anna Sacks
