<aside> đ Are you a parent of a baby in the city of Porto, looking for a nurturing space where you and your child can bond and learn together? Register here
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<aside> đď¸ Update: The Fall 2023 class term is going to follow an open schedule, where families can sign-up either for individual classes or the full term.
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My name is Beatriz, Iâm a certified Montessori (AMI) guide trained in ages 0-3, and I lead intimate playgroup-style classes for pre-walking babies - from around 2 months old to around 14 months old - and their caregivers.
In our classes, there is an hour-long âwork periodâ, which is a time for babies to explore the space and activities freely with all of their senses, and for parents to practice their observation skills with one-on-one guidance and support. There is also a music circle at the end, where we join together to sing songs in english, as well as any other songs families may bring from their cultures.
Everything in the prepared environment is curated with your babyâs development in mind, encouraging the growth of their independence, confidence, movement, language, concentration, and the unfolding of their individual personality. The furniture is at their level so they can see everything and make their own choices; The materials are simple, attractive and passive - to invite babies to play actively and engage fully with their body and mind.
The activities available for babies include visual and tactile mobiles, movement areas with mats, a low mirror, and gross motor challenges, materials for visual and auditory stimulation such as rings, rattles, balls and other grasping toys, plenty of books with real pictures or beautiful illustrations, and more. The materials are based on the childrenâs interests and abilities, and are rotated throughout the term.
As a parent or caregiver, you will be invited to start an observation practice as your baby plays and works freely in the environment. I will guide you in how to follow your childâs cues, trust their abilites, as well as when and how to step in, and when to step back.
You will have access to a parent library on the Montessori approach, parenting and child development that you can borrow books from. Youâll also receive regular handouts (either in print or digitally) about relevant topics, related to the Montessori approach and principles, and how it applies to raising a baby in todayâs world.
*Each child may only be accompanied by one adult caregiver per session. I recommend that the same adult comes for every class, because there is a learning process for the adult as well, and a sense of constancy that is important for the child, but a second caregiver may substitute if needed, as long as their information is provided.
The classes take place in the Cedofeita area in Porto. Full address disclosed upon sign-up.
Class will take place on Thursdays, between 10:00 and 11:30 am.