5 min read
The first 6 months of life are a critical period in a child's development. During this time, the brain is rapidly developing, and the child is acquiring many essential skills and abilities that form the foundation for later development.
We are partnering with Guidepost, one of the world's largest Montessori education organizations, to create a guide for infant development milestones for 0 to 6 months. This guide also provides information about Montessori education and how it can help you care for your child at home.
Montessori is an innovative educational approach pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s. Dr. Montessori was a physician and an educator. With this background, she redefined the role of teachers as scientists. As scientists in the classroom, teachers harness the power of observation to guide the child toward independence. Therefore, Montessori is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It individualizes learning.
In her book, The Absorbent Mind, Dr. Montessori wrote, "follow the child."
What does that mean? It does not mean children are left to do whatever they want. To follow the child refers to meeting their needs in a thoughtfully designed environment according to their developmental milestones.
Babies grow fast the moment they are born. They are learning everything in their surroundings effortlessly. Dr. Montessori called this the unconscious Absorbent Mind. While we sometimes focus on what infants and young children cannot do, there is a tremendous amount that they can do, especially when the environment is thoughtfully prepared for their capabilities.
As children grow, they learn to master their movement. Below you’ll learn all about the abilities they develop in their first six months. Please note that different children grow and learn differently. Consult your child’s pediatrician for a more in-depth assessment.
The brain also grows rapidly during the first six (6) months of life. By the end of this period, the brain will have approximately doubled in size. Your baby's experiences during this time will shape their brain development. This rapid brain growth makes the prepared environment very important.
In Montessori, a prepared environment refers to a thoughtfully designed learning space where everything has a purpose and a place. It is a safe space where the child can feel capable and engaged in their journey toward independence.
Now that we have covered infant developmental milestones and the prepared environment, it's time to consider what you can do to incorporate Montessori at home.
Guidepost operates a global network of 100+ schools, including 6 locations in Hong Kong, providing education for independence for children aged 6 months to 12 years and a supportive learning community for the whole family.
One of their 6 locations in Hong Kong is the Guidepost Family Club (GFC). Located at the heart of Causeway Bay, GFC provides a range of Montessori programs to empower parents with confidence and support children’s developing independence.
Whether you’re expecting your first child or already experiencing the challenges and joys of parenting, you will find relevant resources and expert guidance from GFC’s classes, webinars, and workshops.
GFC is also the hub of a supportive community of young families, where you can connect and learn from others on their respective parenting journeys.
Discover the following two parenting programs at Guidepost Family Club (GFC):
This program provides you with a basic understanding of child development. This program includes practical caregiving tips and parenting strategies that will equip you to support your child when you’re back at home.
You will learn about:
The program includes two (2) private consulting calls with a Montessori infant specialist at Guidepost, who will respond to any queries you may have about thriving at parenting newborns.
This program provides opportunities for you and your baby to bond in a safe, prepared environment. The objective is to guide your understanding of your child's development, help you discover your child's interests, and equip you with tools and skills to support your child at home.
This program's emphasis on parent education sets it apart from other playgroups. Having a supportive parent community is a bonus.
The program covers topics such as:
Interested? Please book a free consultation with a Guidepost infant specialist, or fill out their online application form to enroll in their programs.
Guidepost Family Club
Address: G02-G03, Leighton Centre, 77 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel / WhatsApp: +852 3568 5288
This article is brought to you in partnership with Guidepost Montessori. It is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.
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