The Role of the Montessori Guide in the Infant Community

The Infant Community environment is a space specifically designed to support the child’s earliest steps towards autonomy, socialisation and discovery. But what is the role of the adult in this setting? This is where the Montessori guide plays a vital role.

🌱 A Present Yet Unobtrusive Presence

The Montessori guide does not act as a traditional teacher, but rather as an observer and companion to each child’s individual journey. Her primary mission is to prepare the environment, offer materials appropriate to each stage of development, and observe attentively in order to intervene only when truly necessary.

👐 Encouraging Autonomy Through Respect

In the Infant Community, every child is regarded as competent and capable. Through everyday actions—such as putting on their shoes, pouring themselves a glass of water, or participating in practical tasks—children build self-confidence and develop essential motor and social skills.

🤝 Building Community From the Earliest Years

The guide also plays a key role in modelling respect, courtesy and empathy. Through example and gentle language, she teaches children to wait their turn, care for materials, and live harmoniously with others. In this way, a true sense of community is formed, where each child has a place and contributes with their presence.

💬 Observing in Order to Understand

One of the fundamental principles of the Montessori approach is continuous observation. The guide dedicates time to watching, listening and reflecting on what each child needs, what interests them, and what they are ready to learn. This thoughtful observation allows her to offer appropriate opportunities and respond sensitively to each stage of development.

In summary, the Montessori guide in the Infant Community is a warm, attentive and respectful figure who trusts in each child’s potential and patiently nurtures an environment of freedom within limits, safety, and discovery.

Because in Montessori, education is not about filling a mind, but about accompanying the unfolding of a life. 🌼