Learning approaches
Five approaches, side by side
Every approach wants happy, capable children. They differ in how much the child leads, what the room looks like and when formal learning begins. Many Australian centres blend several.
| Reggio Emilia | Montessori | Steiner / Waldorf | Play-based | Nature / bush kinder | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Began | Italy, after 1945 | Rome, 1907 | Stuttgart, 1919 | Child development research | Scandinavia, 1950s |
| The child | A capable researcher | An independent worker | An imaginative imitator | An active player | An explorer of nature |
| The educator | Co-researcher who listens and documents | Guide who demonstrates, then steps back | Role model doing real work | Play partner who extends learning | Safe guide who supports risk-taking |
| The room | Light, mirrors, a studio, children's work on the walls | Ordered shelves of special materials | Soft colours, natural toys, a nature table | Varied play areas set up with purpose | Parks, bushland and beaches |
| Learning grows from | Projects on children's questions | Self-chosen work with materials | Daily and seasonal rhythm | Child-led and guided play | The changing natural world |
| Formal reading | Woven into projects | Early, with letter materials | Later, usually from about age 6 or 7 | Through play and stories | Through stories and talk |
| Often suits | Curious, chatty children | Children who love order and focus | Dreamy, imaginative children | Most children | Active, outdoor children |
"Often suits" is a general guide only. Every child is different, and a skilled educator matters more than any label.
Reggio Emilia
Projects, many ways of expressing ideas, and the room as a teacher.
Read the guide →Montessori
Independence, concentration and hands-on materials.
Read the guide →Steiner / Waldorf
Rhythm, story, song and natural materials.
Read the guide →Play-based learning
Planned play with intention, as set out in the EYLF.
Read the guide →Nature and bush kinder
Outdoor play in all weather, with healthy risk.
Read the guide →Choosing a centre
What to look for and ask on a tour, whatever the approach.
Read the parent guide →