Below, we compare Montessori to Reggio Emilia-inspired preschools. To learn more about preschool and daycare programs in general, check out our introductory guide.
Montessori preschools are child-focused. They put children front and centre.
On the Montessori approach, children have a unique learning path. This means that they should be given an opportunity to learn in their own way. They often choose their own tasks and work at their own pace.
In preschool (Montessori), kids sometimes work by themselves. Often, though, they work in groups. They work with other kids, and teachers only rarely intervene.
Montessori preschools, like all Montessori schools, have mixed-age classrooms. This makes for a lively learning environment, with lots of interaction, collaboration, and child-to-child teaching.
Reggio preschools rovide a supportive and caring learning environment. They have multi-age classrooms, in which children work and interact together. This makes for a dynamic setting.
Children have lots of freedom. Children can choose their own activities and tasks, based on their interests. They also pursue projects based on their unique passions, which they select with help from the teachers. This is referred to as a "co-constructed curriculum."
In Reggio preschools and kindergartens, like all Reggio schools, kids are encouraged to use many modes of expression and different kinds of media, such as painting, sculpting, and drama. This promotes open communication and creativity.
Reggio teachers document children's progress throughout the year. They also post their work all over the classroom, so that both kids and parents can see student progress.
To learn more about the similarities and differences between various types of preschools, read our comparison guides. In separate articles, we compare Montessori to Waldorf, Waldorf to Reggio Emilia, academic to play-based, Montessori to play-based, and Montessori to academic preschools. If you want to compare specific schools one-to-one, visit our compare hub. You can also read our guide to preschool questions.
To learn about the similarities and differences between different types of schools in general (as opposed to preschools), read comparison guides. In separate articles, we compare Montessori to Waldorf, Waldorf to Reggio Emilia, and Montessori to Reggio Emilia schools.
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
“Montessori is an integrated approach whose aim is to fulfill the needs of the whole child. Reggio is a project-based program, where the lessons are based on the interests of children.” Marcel Pereira, director of Century Private School, a Montessori school in Richmond Hill, Ontario
Child-specific advice on choosing a Reggio Emilia school
Read our child-specific insights on choosing the right school, including Reggio Emilia schools. We explore how choosing the right type of school crucially depends on kids' unique traits, such as their mental and academic focus, social tendencies, and activity level.
To get school-choice advice customized to your child's unique traits, create a child profile through an Our Kids user account.
What does “individualized education” actually look like?
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Small class sizes, inquiry-driven learning, and a focus on well-being have created an environment that nurtures confident and curious learners
Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
These are the leading schools that Our Kids editors have covered most extensively so far, providing detailed insights and thorough analysis of their programs, student life, and more.
"Founded in 1962, TFS offers an exceptional English and French education from 20 months to Grade 12. TFS teaches the curricula of France and Ontario within the International Baccalaureate framework.
—From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Trafalgar Road/Dundas "TRMS uniquely provides enriched French as a second language (FSL) instruction for all levels from Preschool to Elementary. We give students a head start in their educational journey, instilling a "Love of Learning!"" —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Winston Churchill/Lakeshore Road East "Clanmore Montessori offers a warm, inclusive community where children learn with purpose. Our caring educators and mixed‑age environments help students grow with confidence, curiosity, and joy." —From the school
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 Winnipeg, Manitoba Langside St./Westminster Ave. "Recognizing each student's potential in their pursuit of excellence, we encourage progress, we develop opportunities, and we advocate belonging as they create paths that take them into uncharted territories." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Spadina Ave/College Street "Authentic, CCMA accredited Montessori Schools located in downtown Toronto, offering programs for Toddlers, Casa, Elementary and Adolescent children in beautiful settings with large and expansive natural playgrounds." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Don Mill Rd/York Mills Rd "Bayview Glen is a co-ed independent school in North York for students age 2 to Grade 12, combining academic excellence with whole child development to inspire purpose and a better world." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra/Lakeshore "TFS' West Campus in Mississauga offers the curricula of France and Ontario within the IB framework from PK to Grade 7. Our bilingual, coed, non-denominational environment fosters curious learners and engaged citizens." —From the school
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 Victoria, British Columbia "We identify experiences that enhance learning, empowering individuals while fostering a community of collaborative contributors. This is achieved through interdisciplinary projects that are seamlessly integrated." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "Hopscotch Montessori Toronto is an international boutique school that nurtures global citizens aged 0-12. We foster child-driven independence, academic discovery, creative exploration, and a sustainability mindset." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario QEW/Ford Drive / Ninth Line "La Villa Montessori is an AMI recognized school that adheres to Dr. Montessori's principles. We provide a nurturing environment that fulfills the child's emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Lakeshore Road/Southdown "Parents can expect higher academic exposure and research-supported learning strategies to develop intellectual, character, and a social-emotional skills for a personal edge. Kindness and respect for others are valued." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Cawthra Road/QEW "Our mission is to empower students to become compassionate and engaged citizens who are capable of using their academic, artistic, and environmental knowledge to effect positive change in their communities." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine/HWY 7 "Wishing Well Schools offers an accelerated, enriched curriculum in a supportive, family-focused environment, where students thrive, lead, and develop a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "At Central Montessori School (CMS), young minds are inspired to be creative, innovative, and inquisitive. We cultivate bright, young leaders and strong communicators ready for the 21st century." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Yonge Street/Silverwood Ave. "Century Private School is located in Richmond Hill, and our campus occupies 12 acres of land. Our programs runs from preschool to grade twelve, with small class ratio to ensure best learning for our students." —From the school
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 Markham / Stouffville, Ontario Woodbine Ave/Major Mackenzie Dr E "Royal Cachet has authentic Montessori programs for infants to grade 6 in our healthy and safe environments. We focus on the Language & Math areas of the Montessori Curriculum & encourage our students to grow and succeed." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario 14th Ave/Kennedy "Trillium School is a private school that offers programs from pre-school to grade twelve in Markham with Montessori-based kindergarten." —From the school
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 Oshawa, Ontario Wilson Road/Adelaide Ave "At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment." —From the school
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 Coquitlam, British Columbia "An authentic Montessori school, COI offers each child the space and support to grow and thrive academically as well as to develop the social-emotional skills that will help them have a successful and fulfilled life." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Leslie/Elgin Mills "In addition to providing high-quality Montessori education, YMS offers French and Music, on-site after-school classes, off-site field trips, theme-based summer camp, parent education workshops, and family social events." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario St/Matheson Blvd E "ABC Montessori is one of Mississauga's premier private schools. We offers montessori and traditional school programs from preschool to Grade 5 with an emphasis on developing literacy, numeracy, sciences, and arts." —From the school
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 Pickering, Ontario Kingston/Altona "At École Montessori, students become bilingual critical thinkers through a rich French Montessori curriculum that fosters independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Erin Mills Pkwy/Millcreek Drive "Western Heights offers an enriched Montessori program that fosters a love of learning. The school actively engages its close-knit parent community to offer an enriched curriculum that adapts to each student's needs." —From the school
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 Aurora, Ontario St. John Sideroad/Yonge St. "Aurora Montessori delivers an enriched Montessori program that builds strong academic foundations, critical thinking, and independence, while developing adaptive, future-ready skills in a supportive community." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Tomken Rd./Eglinton Ave. E "Northstar Montessori offers an accredited Montessori curriculum from Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference." —From the school
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 Brampton, Ontario "KMSchool offers accredited Montessori education from 18 months to Grade 12, blending academic excellence with ethnic language, culture, and faith to nurture well-rounded, curious, and culturally grounded students." —From the school
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 Brantford, Ontario Fairview Drive/North Park Street "Since 1996, strong academics, small classes, & dedicated teachers have created a nurturing environment where every child feels supported. We inspire well-rounded learners who become confident, compassionate students." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Bathurst St./Eglinton Ave. West "Alive Montessori is a warm, safe and loving community where caring teachers support each child through small class sizes and individualized programs. We nurture independence, confidence, curiosity and a love of learning." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairveiw Street "Ashwood Glen, an IB World School from JK to Gr, 1-8, fosters leadership, global citizenship, & a growth mindset. Our warm, inclusive community & personalized approach empower confident, future-ready students to thrive!" —From the school
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 St. Catharines, Ontario Edinburgh Dr/Scott Street "We provide students with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues, broadening their sense of responsibility, develop their critical thinking skills, and empower them to take action in a global community." —From the school
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 Brampton, Ontario Torbram/Clark "Tall Pines School is focused on post education success. As an IB World School, we go beyond academics to nurture character development while developing critical thinkers today that thrive in the uncertainty of tomorrow." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Mt Pleasant Rd/Eglinton Ave "Authentic AMI Montessori learning with experienced educators, purposeful environments, and strong foundations in literacy, math, and French. Children build independence, focus, and confidence." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Major Mackenzie/Bayview Avenue "Richmond Hill Montessori Private School is a co-ed day school offering programs from Montessori to Grade 8. Small classes from 16-20 students support personalized learning, strong relationships and character growth." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Lakeshore Road East/Bel Air Drive "Offering Montessori programs from Toddler to Grade 8, Dearcroft is accredited by CCMA and staffed by dedicated teachers. We have three campuses in Oakville, delivering exceptional Montessori Programs." —From the school
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 Whitby, Ontario "With bright, modern classrooms, passionate accredited teachers, and an inclusive approach to tuition, Kendalwood fosters curiosity, independence, and academic excellence." —From the school
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 Barrie, Ontario "Barrie Montessori offers programs from 18 months to Grade 8, combining hands-on learning, academic excellence, and character development in a nurturing environment that exceeds Ontario standards." —From the school
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 Burlington, Ontario Walkers Line/Fairview Street "Inspiring Independent Minds with Purpose and Integrity! Positive school culture begins with passionate educators and a commitment to excellence. At FGMS children are guided with dignity because they are capable of more." —From the school
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 Kanata, Ontario • Kanata, Province Eagleson Road/Stonehaven Drive "For 50 years, Kanata Montessori has offered excellent learning environments for students to grow emotionally, socially and academically into a positive global citizen." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Queen Street East/Glen Manor Drive "Our goal is to guide children with respect and understanding, nurturing a lifelong love of learning. We strive to create a supportive environment that fosters intellectual, social, and moral growth." —From the school
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 Toronto / Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario Ellerslie/Yonge St "TFMS offers bilingual education in English and French from Pre-K to Gr. 8. Spanish is introduced as a second language from Gr. 1–8. Small classes and Christian values support each child’s full development and growth." —From the school
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 Newmarket, Ontario "Grace Christian Montessori School acknowledges each child as a masterpiece of God, unleashing their potential through a holistic blend of Montessori principles, STEAM, academic excellence, and biblical teachings." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Kennedy Road/Steeles Avenue "Located in Markham, Ontario, Town Centre Private Schools is an IB Continuum World School offering a Montessori Pre-School program, IB Elementary School, High School and optional IB Diploma Programme." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "Humberside Montessori School is internationally recognized and accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Our AMI certified teachers provide an authentic Montessori experience for our students." —From the school
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 Etobicoke, Ontario Lakeshore and/Kipling "Our approach to learning surpasses traditional education outcomes by interweaving subjects for holistic understanding, fostering essential skills for navigating life challenges in social, emotional and academic contexts." —From the school
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 Unionville, Ontario Kennedy Road/16th Avenue "UC offers year-ahead advanced programs from pre-school to Grade 12. We blend high standards for academic success with the social and emotional development of the individual child." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Alta Vista Drive/Industrial Road "OMS Montessori is a non for profit, independent school offering separate French and English programs within a world class Montessori environment." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Hurontario/Queensway "Shepherd Montessori Private Catholic School in Mississauga offers Casa Montessori programs for children a ged 2.5 to 6. Before- and after-school care and summer camps also available." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Dufferin St/Lawrence Ave W "LDVA provides foundational education and challenges students to develop to their full potential. Officially recognized by the Italian Government, our unique curriculum incorporates Italian language and culture." —From the school
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 Whitby, Ontario Brock Street South/Dundas Streer West "The Hatch House Montessori School is a very child centered school where each student is respected for their uniqueness and is guided through learning accordingly. Ask about our unique, fully bilingual elementary program." —From the school
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 West Vancouver, British Columbia "A Montessori environment nurturing independence and curiosity through a 3-year cycle of hands-on learning, guided discovery, and enrichment including French, music, and outdoor play." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario York Mills/Leslie "We follow the Montessori philosophy: connection before instruction. We customize, personalize, and honor the individuality of every child, nurturing growth through trust, respect, and thoughtful guidance." —From the school
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 Pickering, Ontario whites/kingston road "Montessori Learning Centre is a non-denominational, inclusive school that has been serving families for 40 years. We recognize and honour religious and cultural events as part of our whole-life educational philosophy." —From the school
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 North Vancouver, British Columbia Keith Rd/Lynnmouth Ave "Collaborative and engaging, North Star's programs put students at the center of their learning and quest for knowledge." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario Lawrence Ave./Bathurst St. "The Clover School's innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child." —From the school
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 Markham, Ontario Woodbine/16th Avenue "Trinity Montessori School offers programs from toddler to grade 8 in Markham, Ontario. Its average class size is nine students." —From the school
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 Markham / Unionville, Ontario Brimley Road/14th Ave "Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program caters to children from 1.5 to 5 years old. Yip's campuses are located in Markham and Unionville." —From the school
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 Oakville, Ontario Dundas St. E./Trafalgar Crossing "Dearcroft Montessori Trafalgar Crossing is a thoughtfully prepared learning community grounded in Montessori pedagogy, fostering academic excellence, independence, and holistic child development." —From the school
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 Milton, Ontario Main St W/Bronte St N "Our Montessori classrooms form vibrant communities where children uncover their learning potential and receive ongoing, personalized support for their academic, social, and emotional development." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario Bayview/Sheppard "Bannockburn provides a strong academic foundation anchored in the principles of the Montessori philosophy that supports your child’s intellectual, moral, social, and emotional development in a nurturing environment." —From the school
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 North York, Ontario Sheppard Avenue East/Victoria Park Avenue "Head Start Montessori was founded in 2002, on the premise that children need a warm, loving and authentic Montessori environment for them to grow into well-adjusted and peaceful beings. H.S.M. is a home away from home." —From the school
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 Ottawa, Ontario Baseline Rd./Woodroffe Ave. "Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years." —From the school
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 Richmond Hill, Ontario Bayview/Hwy 407 "Lauremont School is a leading, accredited independent school that offers a unique design of Montessori and International Baccalaureate programmes. Our students thrive in academics while building a foundation for life." —From the school
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 Mississauga, Ontario Glen Erin/Dundas "Kaban Montessori School is a CCMA accredited school in the west area of Mississauga . Our environments foster each child's interests and abilities while supporting them to achieve their full potential." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario "Atelier Kids is a community with passionate educators, engaged parents and curious, adventurous children. Our inquiry-based program is focused on creative arts and building a strong connection with the natural world." —From the school
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 Toronto, Ontario University Ave./Dundas street "CMPS is a faith-based, academically rigorous community blending Montessori and traditional methods to inspire a love of learning, strong character, and confident leadership from Preschool to Grade 12." —From the school
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The youngest learners: 18 months to 3 years
(June 25, 2019)
The Earlier Education Begins, the Better
Research shows the period when a child is five months to five years of age is a very critical time for early learning (June 12, 2019)
Preschools in Canada
The benefits of attending preschool go much deeper than simply better school performance (May 30, 2019)
What is a play-based preschool?
The main features and benefits of play-based preschools (May 30, 2019)
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