In today’s fast-paced and competitive educational landscape, many Singaporean parents are exploring alternatives to traditional teaching methods.
Among these, the Montessori approach has garnered attention for its child-centred philosophy that emphasises independence, hands-on learning, and respect for a child’s natural psychological development.
Montessori schools focus on personalised learning experiences where children are encouraged to learn at their own pace and select their own activities, fostering self-motivation and self-discipline.
This article delves into the principles of Montessori education and its relevance in preparing children in Singapore for the future.
Montessori education is a unique method of education that emphasises self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and collaborative play.
This approach is grounded in the belief that children should be encouraged to learn at their own pace. The Montessori curriculum focuses on the holistic development of the child, encompassing academic, social, emotional, and physical growth.
In the early 20th century, Dr. Maria Montessori, Italy’s first female physician and a trained medical doctor, revolutionised education by introducing a child-centred approach emphasising independence and respect for a child’s natural psychological development.
Her scientific approach to education began in 1907 with the establishment of the first Casa dei Bambini (Children’s House) in Rome’s San Lorenzo district.1
This initiative aimed to provide a nurturing environment for underprivileged children, allowing them to engage in meaningful activities at their own pace. The success of this model highlighted the effectiveness of Montessori’s educational approach, leading to its global adoption.
Montessori education is grounded in several key components that guide its approach to learning and development. These components emphasise the importance of respecting each child’s individuality, fostering independence, and creating an environment conducive to self-directed learning.
In Singapore’s highly structured and competitive educational landscape, the Montessori method offers a distinctive approach that aligns with the nation’s evolving educational priorities.
While Montessori education offers numerous benefits, it may not be the ideal fit for every child or family. Understanding its limitations can help parents make more informed decisions.
Montessori education allows children to choose their activities and learn at their own pace. While this fosters independence, some children may thrive better in a more structured and guided environment, especially those who need more routine or external direction to stay focused.
Not all schools that claim to be “Montessori” adhere strictly to the core principles and practices outlined by Dr. Maria Montessori. This inconsistency can make it challenging for parents to assess quality and effectiveness across different Montessori centres.
In Singapore’s academically competitive context, the Montessori approach’s minimal focus on examinations and standardised assessments might raise concerns for parents preparing their children for the rigours of primary school. While Montessori students develop critical thinking and soft skills, they may need additional support transitioning to conventional academic structures.
Montessori environments require specially designed materials and highly trained educators, which can contribute to higher school fees. This can make the approach less accessible for some families compared to more traditional preschool options.
Because of its individualised nature, Montessori may offer fewer opportunities for children to work collaboratively on group tasks. While social development is still prioritised, some children might benefit from more structured teamwork experiences to build peer-to-peer collaboration skills.
While the Montessori approach offers a thoughtful and child-led philosophy, we believe that early education should go beyond just methodology—it should create a sense of belonging, support, and connection.
At My First Skool, we don’t just provide a curriculum—we build a nurturing community where every child is seen, heard, and valued. Our educators work closely with families to understand each child’s unique needs, guiding them through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and build confidence.
With over 160 preschool centres across Singapore, we make it easy for families to access quality preschool education grounded in local values and backed by years of research. Our close partnership with MOE Kindergartens ensures a smooth and supported transition into primary school—an important milestone in your child’s educational journey.
Because at My First Skool, we know that a strong start isn’t just about learning—it’s about growing within a caring, connected community that supports your child every step of the way.
Every year, over 26,000 families all across Singapore see their children benefit from our relationship-based curriculum – one that emphasises forging strong bonds between children, teachers and parents.
Find a centre near you or take a virtual tour to explore our learning environments and learn how your child can thrive.
