Montessori Childcare
Montessori Childcare is Australia’s independent guide to Montessori early learning and education. We help parents understand what Montessori childcare really means, how it differs from traditional daycare, and whether it’s the right choice for their child. Our goal is to make Montessori simple, approachable, and relevant for Australian families — translating the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori into practical guidance for modern early learning.
This site answers the questions parents most often ask: What is Montessori childcare? How does the Montessori method support my child’s development? Is it recognised under Australia’s National Quality Framework? You’ll find clear explanations of the Montessori philosophy, insights from the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and advice on what to look for when visiting a Montessori early learning environment.
Whether you’re exploring the method for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding, we bring together everything you need to make informed, confident decisions about your child’s early education.
What Is Montessori Childcare?
The Montessori approach centres on independence, respect, and meaningful exploration. Children are encouraged to discover at their own pace through purposeful activity and real-world experiences, supported by environments designed to promote focus and confidence. Educators observe closely and step in only when needed, guiding children toward new challenges while allowing them to follow their interests. This creates a learning atmosphere where curiosity is valued, concentration can flourish, and children develop a strong sense of capability and self-motivation.
Across Australia, services that follow this philosophy operate within the national regulatory system, including the National Quality Framework (NQF) and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). These standards work alongside the educational principles, ensuring that programs meet expectations for safety, wellbeing, and developmental growth while still honouring the unique character of a child-led learning environment.
Learn more on our What is Montessori Childcare page.
More Information:
Child Care Guide offer detailed information about the National Quality Framework and Early Years Learning Framework.
Find Montessori Childcare Near You
From Sydney to Perth, hundreds of early learning services across Australia follow the Montessori method. Many are accredited Montessori centres, while others draw inspiration from its principles in preschools and long day care settings.
Choose your state below to start exploring Montessori childcare near you.
Looking for specific Montessori centres? Visit our partner directories for detailed listings — including contact details, quality ratings, and fee information. For example, you can explore Montessori services directly on one of our directory sites:
Why Choose Montessori Childcare?
- Individualised learning: Each child progresses at their own pace, guided by curiosity.
- Real-world skills: Practical life and sensorial activities build focus and independence.
- Respectful environments: Classrooms encourage collaboration and responsibility.
- Evidence-based approach: Backed by more than 100 years of Montessori research and practice.
Montessori Childcare Resources
Explore our latest articles and resources to help you choose and support a Montessori education:
Montessori Toys vs Regular Toys: What’s the Difference? Many parents notice the growing popularity of “Montessori toys” and wonder how they differ from regular toys found in department stores. While both can be enjoyable, Montessori-aligned materials are designed with a specific purpose: to support concentration, independence, and real-world learning. This…
Continue Reading Montessori Toys vs Regular Toys: What’s the Difference?
How Montessori Supports Emotional Development in Early Childhood Emotional development is just as important as early literacy and numeracy — and it’s an area where Montessori shines. Through respectful guidance, clear routines, and meaningful activities, Montessori environments help children build resilience, confidence, and emotional regulation. Here’s how Montessori supports emotional…
Continue Reading How Montessori Supports Emotional Development in Early Childhood
5 Montessori Activities You Can Try at Home Montessori isn’t just for the classroom — it’s a way of supporting your child’s independence and curiosity in everyday life. You don’t need specialised materials to get started. Simple items you already have at home can create meaningful learning opportunities that build…
Continue Reading 5 Montessori Activities You Can Try at Home (Simple, Calm, and Child-Led)
Montessori Childcare FAQs
Q: What age can children start Montessori childcare?
A: Most Montessori centres welcome children from around 18 months of age. Some programs offer infant Montessori experiences for babies as young as six months, while others focus on the preschool years (3–6).
Q: Is Montessori childcare more expensive than regular daycare?
A: Fees vary between services. Montessori options may cost slightly more due to smaller class sizes and specialised materials. However, many Montessori centres are approved for the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), which helps reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Q: Can Montessori childcare help children with ADHD or additional needs?
A: Yes. Montessori’s structured, calm environments can be beneficial for children with ADHD, autism, or sensory differences. The focus on independence, routine, and hands-on learning supports attention, confidence, and emotional regulation.
Q: What makes Montessori different from regular daycare?
A: Montessori classrooms are designed around self-directed learning, mixed-age groups, and real-life materials. Instead of group instruction, educators guide each child’s individual progress, fostering independence and curiosity.
Q: Is Montessori recognised under Australia’s childcare regulations?
A: Yes. Montessori childcare operates within the National Quality Framework (NQF) and aligns with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF v2.0), ensuring quality, safety, and developmental outcomes.
Montessori Childcare — Supporting parents, educators, and children across Australia.