CrecheFinder DublinAs you research creches and preschools in Dublin, you will notice that some describe themselves as Montessori, while others talk about play-based learning, emergent curriculum or Aistear. These labels can be hard to compare, and in practice many settings blend more than one approach.
This guide explains the core ideas behind each approach in general terms and suggests questions that help you see how a particular setting works day to day. Neither approach is better for every child; the quality of the staff and environment matters most.
At a glance
Montessori
- Based on the ideas of Maria Montessori
- Carefully prepared environment with specific learning materials
- Child chooses work and progresses at their own pace
- Emphasis on independence, order and practical life skills
- Often mixed-age groups in the preschool years
- Adults observe and guide rather than lead
Play-based
- Learning happens through play, both free and adult-supported
- Wide range of open-ended toys and materials
- Activities often follow children's current interests
- Emphasis on social skills, communication and creativity
- Usually grouped by age
- Adults join in, extend and scaffold play
The Montessori approach
Montessori education was developed by Maria Montessori in the early twentieth century. It centres on a prepared environment where materials are arranged so children can choose activities independently. Many materials are self-correcting, meaning a child can see for themselves whether they have completed a task correctly. Practical life activities, such as pouring, sweeping and dressing, are a distinctive feature.
The play-based approach
Play-based settings see play as the main way young children learn. Children explore sand, water, construction, role play, art, books and outdoor spaces, while adults observe, join in and extend their learning with questions and new ideas. Planning often responds to what the children are interested in, sometimes called an emergent curriculum.
Supporters of this approach point to the way it builds communication, problem solving and social confidence. Because children often play together in small groups, they practise sharing, negotiating and taking turns throughout the day, with adults on hand to help.
Where Aistear and Síolta fit in
In Ireland, Aistear is the national curriculum framework for children from birth to six, and Síolta is the national quality framework for early childhood education. Aistear places strong emphasis on learning through play and relationships. Many Montessori and play-based settings alike use Aistear and Síolta to guide their practice, so you may see elements of both approaches in a single room.
Questions to ask on a visit
- What approach do you follow, and how does it show in a typical day?
- What training do staff have in that approach?
- How much choice do children have about what they do?
- How do you support children who need more structure or more freedom?
- How do you use Aistear in your planning?
- How do you share my child's learning and progress with me?
Matching an approach to your child
Think about your child's personality. A child who loves order, concentration and doing things for themselves may enjoy a Montessori room. A child who thrives on imaginative games, noise and group play may love a play-based setting. Most children adapt well to either when staff are warm, skilled and attentive, so let what you observe guide you more than the label on the door.
What both approaches have in common
Despite their differences, good Montessori and good play-based settings share a great deal. Both respect children as capable learners, both value independence and curiosity, and both rely on skilled adults who observe children closely and plan around their needs. Both should offer plenty of time outdoors, opportunities for language and social development, and warm relationships with a consistent key person. When you visit, look for these shared foundations first, then consider which style of day feels like the better fit for your child and family.
Montessori or play-based, the best setting is one where your child feels secure, curious and valued every day.