Montessori vs. Waldorf preschools and daycares
Comparing Montessori and Waldorf preschools and daycares
Which is better for your child: a Montessori or Waldorf preschool? And what is the difference between the Montessori and Waldorf preschool approach?
Below, we compare Waldorf to Montessori preschools. This should give you a strong sense of their similarities and differences. To learn more about preschool and daycare programs in general, check out our introductory guide to preschool education.
Montessori preschools
At their core, Montessori preschools are child- or student-focused. They place children front and centre.
On the Montessori approach, children have a unique developmental path. This means, among other things, that they should be given an opportunity to learn in developmentally appropriate ways, and build confidence in doing so.
In preschool (Montessori), kids work in a decentralized learning environment, usually by themselves or in small groups with peers of different ages. They often collaborate, with each other and their teachers. Montessori doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all curriculum. Instead, kids have quite a bit of freedom to choose their own projects and work at their own pace.
Montessori preschools, like all Montessori schools, have mixed-age classrooms. This makes for a dynamic learning environment, with lots of interaction, collaboration, and child-to-child teaching. And this helps children to grow cognitively and socially, and become more independent and responsible.
Montessori preschools are for infants, toddlers, and older kids. They're usually divided up into two programs: toddler preschool and primary school. Each program uses a distinct method and focuses on a special set of skills (with some overlap).
Waldorf preschools
Waldorf preschools have a flexible approach. Children often have the freedom to pursue their own activities. While they do have daily schedules and routines, kids can often pursue their interests and passions.
Many students find this approach rewarding. When given freedom, they often choose tasks that challenge and excite them. This can spark their natural curiosity and inspire a love of learning.
Moreover, Waldorf preschools don’t focus much on traditional academics. In fact, they normally delay the learning of math, reading, and other subjects until grade 1. Waldorf preschools, like all Waldorf schools, aim to educate the whole child: “head, heart, and hands.” Teachers educate children’s cognitive, active, and emotional sides.
There is a special focus in Waldorf on art, imagination, and creativity. In preschool, young children are given plenty of time for free play, artistic work (e.g., drawing, painting, and modelling), circle time (songs, games, and stories), and outdoor recess. This promotes imaginative learning and leads to lots of pretend play. It also allows children to develop important social skills.
Montessori vs. Waldorf preschools
Main similarities
- Child-centred: Both programs allow children to mostly select their own tasks and activities.
- Multi-age classrooms: Both programs have mixed-age classrooms, where kids have the same teacher for several years. In Montessori, it’s usually for three years. In Waldorf, it can be for up to six years.
- Love of learning: Both programs aim to inspire a love of learning.
Main differences
- Work and play: Montessori focuses more on task-oriented work. This separates it from many other preschool approaches, including Waldorf. Waldorf has a more play-based approach.
- Art and imagination: Waldorf focuses a lot on art, imagination, and creativity. There is less of an emphasis on these things in Montessori schools.
- Concrete learning: Montessori has more concrete learning than Waldorf (although Waldorf does have hands-on activities, like woodworking). Waldorf focuses more on imaginative learning than Montessori.
- Routine: Waldorf offers all children a consistent routine. For instance, certain activities, such as painting and woodworking, are reserved for certain days of the week.
- Nature: Waldorf focuses more on nature and the environment (though most Montessori preschools focus on these as well).
To learn more about the similarities and differences between various types of preschools, read our comparison guides. In separate articles, we compare Montessori to Reggio Emilia, 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.
Preschool questions (read our in-depth answers) |
Answers to the question “What is the difference between Montessori and Waldorf preschools?” from school officials
“Waldorf and Montessori both use a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate, and both recognize and respect a child’s need for daily routine. They also both believe in child-initiated activity. The Montessori approach believes that children should work with manipulatives that will teach them concepts, with the teachers available to guide them in this learning. The Waldorf approach supports child-initiated play to cultivate healthy growth and learning in a range of areas, from gross and fine motor skills to the development of imagination and creativity.” Lylli Anthon, faculty chair of Halton Waldorf school, a Waldorf school in Burlington, Ontario
“Montessori is an integrated approach whose aim is to fulfill the needs of the whole child. Waldorf, like Montessori, aspires to educate the whole child, though concepts can be taught in a variety of ways.” Marcel Pereira, director of Century Private School, a Montessori school in Richmond Hill, Ontario
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List of Montessori and Waldorf preschools
Access school reviews, insights, and comparisons through our comprehensive reports below.
 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 Davenport Rd/Spadina Rd "Waldorf education is 'schooling with heart'. Students and parents love our class sizes, strong teacher relationships, incredible curriculum, unique opportunities and arts-infused academics!" —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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 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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 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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 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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 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 "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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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/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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 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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 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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 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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 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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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 / 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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 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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 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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 Thornhill, Ontario Bathurst St/Rutherford Rd "Toronto Waldorf School offers a curriculum that integrates academics, arts and movement while addressing the intellectual, physical, emotional and social aspects of child development from preschool to gr. 12." —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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 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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 Burlington, Ontario Appleby Line/Upper Middle Road "Discover Halton Waldorf School—where confidence, independence, and curiosity thrive. Nestled on five lush forested acres, our unique campus has nurtured young minds through Waldorf education since 1984." —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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 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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 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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 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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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