Parent and Child Program
Parent and Child Program bookings are opening soon.
During the first three years of life, a child's brain absorbs more information from the environment than at any other stage in their lifetime. Every sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell is processed, making this a truly remarkable and transformative period in a child’s development.
This program is designed for both parents and children, nurturing the child’s natural curiosity and supporting their innate ability to learn. Based on a foundation of trust in the child’s potential, the program fosters exploration and discovery.
The prepared environment offers inviting spaces for children to engage in age-appropriate developmental activities. Each area is designed with a clear objective, such as care for self, language development, food preparation and sensorial exploration, while supporting the four essential foundations of learning:
- Movement
- Communication
- Functional Independence
- Self-discipline
The duration of each session is approximately 1.5 hours, during which parents accompany their children as they participate in hands-on, self-paced learning experiences grounded in real-world activities. While children explore and discover, parents observe and are offered practical guidance on how to incorporate Montessori principles into their home environment. This collaborative approach not only enhances their child’s growth and development but also strengthens the connection between home and school.
Newborn (0 to 4 months)
These nurturing sessions are designed for parents and their newborns, where families connect, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions on topics that matter most. Each week, themes are explored, including feeding, sleep, the physical and emotional needs of mothers, supporting siblings, and appropriate learning materials. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents to build friendships with others, while deepening the understanding of early development in a warm, supportive environment.
Baby (4 to 15 months)
In the early stages of development, children begin to explore and make sense of the world around them. As they navigate their environment, they gain independence and build confidence in their abilities. Our carefully prepared space offers a variety of activities that engage the interests of 4 to 15 months old. Here, children have the freedom to explore the environment while parents observe and learn from their interactions. This experience supports both the child’s growth and offers parents insight into the benefits of the Montessori philosophy during this crucial period.
Infant (15 to 20 months)
At 15 to 20 months old, infants embark on an exciting journey of discovery, transitioning from crawling to standing and eventually walking. As their hands become free to explore, they gain confidence in interacting with the world around them. At this stage, we introduce basic practical life activities that help refine their emerging skills. Children will enjoy engaging in water play, practicing essential life skills, and exploring a thoughtfully prepared environment that nurtures their growth. Our carefully selected activities are designed to meet your child’s developmental needs while supporting the development of independence and concentration. At the end of each session, parents and guides will share valuable observations and insights, offering practical ways to support your child’s development at home.
Toddler (20 to 36 months)
During this phase, the toddler’s growing interest in doing things independently is nurtured in an environment designed to support this development. Parents are invited to participate in discussions, observe their child’s development, and engage in activities together. Sessions include parent participation, and observation of their child working independently. This balance allows for deeper understanding and respect for the child’s growing abilities while fostering a peaceful, reflective space away from the pressures of daily life.
Repetition and freedom to choose are core elements of Montessori, allowing your child to build independence, self-esteem, and confidence. Children are encouraged to explore freely, making choices that reflect their developing interests and needs.
This is the final session in the Parent Child program before enrolling into our Transition to Children’s House program. Please note that families have the option to continue in the Parent Toddler sessions until the child reaches 36 months, or from 26 months enrols in our Transition to Children’s House program, based on the needs of both the child and family.
ISMS is an independent school based in Sydney that delivers authentic Montessori education to children from birth to 12 years of age with a commitment to the Montessori philosophy.