Dr. Montessori believed that education begins at birth. Infants and Toddlers learn faster than at any other time in their life. She also believed that there are certain “sensitive periods” or “windows of opportunity” in children’s learning – “periods when children are especially receptive to certain kinds of stimulation in order to create the neural connections and pathways that allow them to explore their physical, emotional, social, intellectual and creative capacities over their lifetimes” (British Columbia Early Learning Framework).

They need room to move, and, because Dr. Montessori believed the “keys to a child’s universe” are his/her senses, many activities in this program are designed to train the senses. Even the floor is covered with different surfaces so the crawling child can feel the different textures.

The most important thing that any adult in their environment can do is to be a good role model in the way they talk, behave and react.

The Infant/Toddler needs a warm, loving, nurturing and safe environment where he/she feels comfortable enough to explore.

As one parent said “enough structure to feel safe, yet room to grow and freedom to explore” and as quoted in the British Columbia Early Learning Framework: “Toddlers who have both a supportive environment and opportunities to explore will develop a secure sense of self and a healthy spirit of adventure”.