Infant Toddler Program (1-3)
A Leading Montessori Playgroup
Our Infant Toddler Program (Montessori Playgroup) is the ideal way for your family to experience Montessori philosophy and practice, providing a gentle transition to the Children’s House. Even if you are uncertain about your child’s future educational path, attending a Montessori playgroup is a chance to meet other like-minded parents and be guided by a trained Montessori educator in observing your child and offering them the experiences they are ready for.
Children from twelve months to three years are welcome to attend the Infant Toddler Program, one day a week during school terms.
Our Karnup Playgroup is currently held on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:15 am to 11:15 am. Our Lakelands Playgroup is held on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Our playgroup fee is $25 per casual session per child, or paid termly in advance at $20 per session (i.e: 10 weeks = $200, 9 weeks = $180).
Our Montessori Playgroups are very popular, so we recommend you book in early.
A typical morning in the West Coast Montessori Infant Toddler Program
At our playgroups, each session is run by a fully-qualified leader, who brings a wealth of experience. Each child is greeted personally with a handshake and farewelled at the end of the session.
Montessori equipment, puzzles, arts & crafts and practical life trays are arranged carefully upon shelves to provide a beautifully prepared environment. Parents attend with their child, helping the child to master the work they have chosen. Independence is encouraged, and children of different ages may work together, learning from one another.
There is a ‘bring and share’ morning tea of fresh fruit. The children collect and set out their own placemats, glasses and plates at communal tables. Children are encouraged to serve themselves with child-sized tongs and pour their own water from child-sized jugs. The table is decorated with flowers in vases, collected and arranged by one of the children.
Children then wash up their own dishes and go out to play. After a time, they return inside for a story, singing, musical instruments and free-style dancing. It is very much a fun morning and the children enjoy themselves immensely.
Montessori & Early Childhood Development (0–6 years)
From birth to age six, a child’s development is nothing short of extraordinary. In this critical stage, known as the first "plane of development," children absorb everything around them - language, culture, and behaviour, effortlessly and unconsciously.
Montessori recognises this period as the foundation of personality, intelligence, and social connection. With the right environment, we can support their natural drive for independence, movement, and communication - nurturing the full potential already taking shape within.