At SensorStory, we offer parent-child sensory classes following the Montessori method. Our approach offers an inclusive space for children aged 0-3 of all abilities and learning styles, and all caregivers.
Montessori is a philosophy, and it’s education is based on the idea that children learn best when they are given the freedom to explore and discover independently within a carefully prepared environment designed to support their individual needs and interests.
Through our baby and toddler groups we encompass the principles of Montessori that foster respect for each child's unique developmental journey, emphasising respect for a child’s natural psychological, physical, and social development, and aim to help little ones develop self-motivation, independence, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.
What sets us apart from other baby and toddler sensory groups is our effectiveness in supporting children with autism. The Montessori method is quite unique, renowned for its focus on nurturing natural curiosity, and has proven to be exceptionally effective for children with autism, as it provides a space which allows them the freedom to explore and learn in a structured and supportive learning environment that can empower them thrive, unlocking their full potential in ways traditional settings may not.
In our classes, children are not confined by rigid structures or forced socialisation; instead, they are encouraged to explore freely within an environment of order, supported by gentle guidelines and engaging learning materials. This philosophy forms the core basis of Montessori education, which prioritises the child's autonomy and natural inclination to learn through independent discovery.
Montessori isn’t all about the materials but more about the philosophy, it is a kinesthetic holistic approach. Following and respecting the child, observing them, fostering their independence, allowing them time, and creating an environment catered to them and their needs. It includes an abundance of visual learning and spoken instructions, kinesthetic learning involving movement and hands-on activities, designed to develop the ‘whole child’.
SensorStory is a multisensory learning prepared environment for babies and toddlers from 0-3, and a place for parents/carers to unwind, observe and bond with their child, and meet other local parents/caregivers.
Not every child fits into a traditional sensory class or playgroup. Some with autism may not fit into a Montessori program. However, many children with moderate and even severe autism symptoms may find that the Montessori method is more effective and provides more opportunities.
Moreover, many autistic caregivers may find that a Montessori parent-child sensory class is more accessible and may offer newfound understanding. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, we strive to create a space where both children and caregivers, of all abilities, feel supported and empowered.
The benefits of Montessori parent-child sensory classes for autistic individuals are many. From promoting sensory exploration and fine motor skills development to enhancing social interactions and self-regulation, our classes aim to unlock the full potential of every child, regardless of their neurodiversity.
Here we list some specific advantages of the support and benefits for autistic individuals our approach to baby and toddler classes include, compared to other baby and toddler sensory groups:
1. Purposefully minimizing distractions: Montessori spaces are specifically designed to reduce most types of distractions with an active effort to avoid overstimulation, focusing on simplicity and fewer colours. Our environment promotes a calm and peaceful space, with no loud noises or bright lights. Unlike other baby and toddler sensory classes, you won't find us herding everyone into a large circle, nor denied entry if they arrive late. At SensorStory adults and their child are free to arrive when they can, allowing them to follow their child, as is the Montessori way, and encouraged to arrive relaxed and in their own time, limited only by their booked class end time. Upon arrival and for the remainder of the session they are free to explore the space as they wish, joining in group activities where offered and free to continue with their current focus if preferable. We use only natural light, and ensure there are darker areas too, and only play soft music near the end of the group, at one end of the space.
2. Learning at their own pace: one key benefit of Montessori for autism is that it allows children to learn at their own pace, one concept at a time. In our Montessori program, babies and toddlers work and explore different areas of the environment over time, were the space is divided into separate areas. One for language, another arts, for movement, for eye-hand coordination, for music, for practical life, food preparation, for example. Children can choose an activity that interests them and stay with it for as long as they choose. This is beneficial for children with autism because they may need more time to become familiar with and focus on a material, as well as allowing for repetition.
3. Individualised learning: the Montessori approach focuses on observation, and gently tailoring the environment, activities and materials to the unique interests, needs and strengths of the attending children.
4. Beauty and order: Montessori recognises that children are naturally drawn towards beauty and order, and a visually appealing environment can inspire a sense of calm and curiosity, enhancing their overall learning experience. Montessori emphasises the importance of creating a beautiful environment with aesthetically pleasing learning materials, aimed at engaging their senses and stimulating their cognitive development. Maria Montessori believed that creating an aesthetically pleasing space not only enhances the learning process but also cultivates a deep appreciation for beauty and harmony in life.
5. Sensory-based learning: Our Montessori parent-child groups provide a sensory-rich environment through hands-on experiences and sensory exploration, helping children to develop and refine their sensory processing skills, which can be beneficial for autistic individuals.
6. Focus on independence and self-directed learning: Montessori encourages children to learn by following their current interests and focus, promoting independence, self-confidence, and a sense of ownership, which can help autistic children develop essential life skills.
7. Social skill development: Montessori groups can provide opportunities for autistic individuals to interact with peers in a structured, supportive and free-flowing environment. Montessori fosters natural social interactions among children, rather than directed socialisation or forced group activities, providing opportunities for children to learn and practice social skills in a supportive environment, particularly helpful for children with autism. The emphasis on turn-taking and respect for others can help autistic children develop social skills at their own pace. As part of our language area we often have activities relating to learning and understanding emotions, which for autistic children can be particularly useful helping them understand and express their emotions.
8. Practical Life Skills: Montessori education advocates the development of practical life skills, such as self-care and care for the environment for example. Our baby and toddler classes offer age-appropriate materials and activities for children to practice the skills, where we provide tools that allow them to succeed, especially useful for children with autism to help navigate daily life.
9. Structured environment: Montessori spaces provide a highly structured and ordered environment, with minimal change to the environment each week, which can be comforting and less overwhelming for autistic individuals who may struggle with sensory processing and transitions. Montessori is full of calming activities, in a structured and relaxing environment, where there is ‘a place for everything and everything is in its place’.
10. Emphasis on routines: Montessori encourages routine both in an educational environment and at home. Our classes follow consistent routines and use visual schedules, which can help autistic individuals feel more secure and reduce anxiety related to transitions or unexpected changes.
11. Parent/caregiver involvement: Our Montessori parent-child classes involve parents in the learning process, providing them with strategies and tools to support their child's development at home. Each week we offer optional exercises/tasks to help learn more about their child's development and the Montessori method.
We offer new families a parent handbook, which details all the necessary information about class, and broader information about Montessori. We offer a free app downloadable on all mobiles, which allows parents to keep their class details (times, address(es), dates etc) in their pocket, to help avoid feeling overwhelmed when leaving the house and trying to remember all the details.
And we have a hub on our site which contains a wealth of information including Montessori guideance, answers to frequently asked questions, Montessori inspiration for the home, development information for babies and toddlers aged 0-3, Montessori activities to do at home, guidance on Montessori parenting, toileting tips, baby and toddler sensory inspiration, discussion on mental health issues and who/where to reach out for extra support on a wide range on issues. Our hub is organized for ease of access, and offers clear and precise guidance, particularly well received by ASD adults.
12. Autistic parents/caregivers: our Montessori classes offer babies and toddlers a program full of age-appropriate Montessori activities and materials in a prepared environment. Some activities are designed specifically to help promote parent/caregiver-baby bond, such as observation exercises and guided baby-parent massage for example. Our classes offer the adult a place to unwind and recharge over a cup of coffee, the opportunity to interact with other local parents and build lasting friendships. with the ability to step in and out of social environments with ease. We also offer a limited number of free places each term for families of newborns under 3-months-old so everybody can benefit, regardless of budget.
The principles of Montessori can be applied in every family in their unique way. It takes a little bit of balance to ensure that everyone gets all their needs met, while also respecting the needs of others, but we make it work for everyone. Our Montessori approach to parent-child sensory classes for babies and children from birth to 3 years offers numerous benefits for babies, toddlers and parents/caregivers with autism in a supportive prepared environment that addresses the unique needs of autistic individuals, promoting their development in a way that traditional sensory classes and playgroups may not.
SensorStory nurtures the educational and social growth of children with autism and other learning challenges, alongside catering to the needs of autistic adults. Our commitment lies in ensuring that every child's unique requirements are met with compassion, efficacy, and inclusivity.
While children with ASD are often diagnosed around the age of three, many parents are aware of symptoms much earlier. Several studies have shown that Montessori education can benefit children with autism.
One study found that children with autism who attended a Montessori environment significantly improved social skills, communication, and self-care abilities.
Another study found that Montessori programs can help children with autism develop better executive function skills, such as planning, organisation, and problem-solving.
Advice and guideance:
The National Autistic Society: Helpline 0870 600 8585 Education Advice Line 0870 358 8667.
To attend our weekly SensorStory Baby and Toddler Montessori parent-child sensory classes follow this link to enrol your infant here.