Setting the foundation for academic success: the top Montessori schools in Dubai
Montessori schools have been around for quite some time – in fact, the first ever Montessori school, Rome’s ‘Casa dei Bambini’, opened way back on the 6th January 1907. The impeccable reputation of Montessori schools has only continued to grow in the 100+ years since, with parents around the world seeking the schools for their children. Indeed, when searching for a place to live, parents will often defer other preferences in favour of an area’s education institutions. This is particularly true for early education, as many believe that having a strong academic foundation is critical for future success.
Read on as we reveal the top Montessori schools in Dubai that have built a positive reputation based on performance and results.
TOP MONTESSORI SCHOOLS IN DUBAI
In recent years, there’s been a surge in Montessori schools in Dubai. But the question is – how are they different from traditional schools?
A Montessori school focuses on the well-rounded social, cognitive, physical and emotional development of each child. Similarly, a Montessori classroom is thoughtfully designed to offer children opportunities to develop their own abilities, whether it’s learning, creative thinking or problem-solving. Ms Maria Tecla Artemisia Montessori, an Italian physician best known for the philosophy of education, believed that children become more creative, inquisitive and confident when given the freedom to choose their own learning pace.
You’d find that every Montessori in Dubai follows the century-old tried and tested Maria Montessori model. Students learn on their own with teachers present as observers and facilitators. During group and individual activities, children expand their knowledge base and learning by exploring things that pique their interest. Independent learning allows them to grow and understand the world around them.
Hence, it is no surprise that parents put a great deal of importance in searching for the right fit for their child. Luckily, there are many top Montessori nurseries in Dubai to choose from.
LITTLE LAND NURSERY
Starting off our list of the most popular Montessori schools in Dubai is Little Land Nursery in Umm Suqeim. The learning program at Little Land Nursery is divided into six areas: art, practical life, sensorial, language, mathematics and culture. This allows children to explore different concepts and identify subjects of interest.
Teachers at Little Land Nursery intervene in the learning process when required. For example, if a student is struggling to hold a pencil properly, a teacher can help them by practical life experimentation that involves using a medicine dropper, threading beads or holding tweezers to pick up objects. This method ensures that the student doesn’t lose interest in the activity at hand.
- Age requirements: 2.5 to 4 years
- Fees: Starting from AED 22,665
- Location: Villa 11, Al Dassi Street, Umm Suqeim
- Contact: +971-4-394-4471
NEW INDIAN MODEL SCHOOL
The New Indian Model School (Nims Montessori) is next on our list of top Montessori schools in Dubai. Following the Maria Montessori model, teachers focus on following areas:
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Environmental Studies (understanding the world around us)
- Personal Social and Emotional Development
- Arts & Craft
- Fine Motor Skills
- Sensorial Activities
- Exercise of Practical Life
- Gross Motor Skills
- Islamic Education & Moral Values
Another critical aspect of Montessori education is the communication level between parents and management/teachers. The idea is to work as a team and ensure the best possible development of the child, through quality learning at home and at school. At NIMS, parents are constantly kept in the loop regarding their child’s progress and how they can aid the process.
- Age requirements: 4 to 5 years
- Location: Rebat Street, Al Garhoud
- Contact: +971-4-282-4313
REDWOOD MONTESSORI NURSERY
Part of the Kid’s First Group, Redwood Montessori Nursery has several branches throughout Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Teachers design special exercises according to the curriculum in order to improve concentration in each student, develop their language skills, whilst also developing a sense of responsibility and respect. Children carry these lessons for life.
To complement the extensive and engaging learning program, all Redwood branches have premium facilities to benefit students, such as Feng Shui master certified classes, sports arenas, age-appropriate play areas, performing art facilities, exercise area, music and art rooms, library and a media centre.
- Locations: Golden Mile 8, Palm Dubai (+971-4-422-8581) | Villa 45, 20 C Street, Garhoud (+971-50-756-9208)
TAPPY TOES NURSERY
Tappy Toes Nursery follows a fun and engaging method of learning. It employs a mix of the British Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and the Montessori Method to teach children. Experienced and well-trained teachers help develop students’ cognitive abilities and language, as well as their sensory and real-life skills.
Also counted among the best Montessori schools in Dubai, this nursery has a children’s clinic and a sleeping centre, in case your little one needs a little break or isn’t feeling that great during the day.
- Location: G4, Mohammed Abdulla Al Khayel Building, Al Karama
- Contact: +971-56-664-9971
INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF DUBAI
This Montessori school in Dubai scheduled to open in September 2021 will offer online education and follow the French-American curriculum (AEFE-US Washington). Only a maximum of 10 students will be enrolled in each class, which means every child will get undivided teacher’s attention.
Furthermore, the school will focus on creating an inclusive environment where no child is left behind. The specialized Montessori team will try to ensure that they understand the learning behaviour of every child and find a way for them to excel.
- Age requirements: 18 months to 11 years
- Location: Safa Park
- Contact: +971-54-993-4664
GREAT MINDS NURSERY
Great Minds Nursery’s learning program aims to improve a child’s motor skills and manual dexterity. The aim is for the students to be able to process abstract concepts and convert them into concrete ideas. The ultimate goal is to ensure the well-rounded development of a child.
At Great Minds Nursery, the focus isn’t just academic learning, but the management understands the importance of physical activities. Moreover, through integrated enrichment strategies, teachers try and build the confidence and self-esteem of the child.
- Age requirements: 1 to 4 years
- Location: Street 29, Villa 11, Al Wasl Next to City Walk/Behind Box Park
- Contact: +971-4-344-5222
FAQS
ARE THERE ANY ONLINE MONTESSORI NURSERIES IN DUBAI?
Yes, some Montessori schools offer online education programs. For example, the International Montessori School of Dubai listed above is an online school.
CAN I FIND SCHOOLS THAT BLEND MONTESSORI EDUCATION AND EYFS?
Yes, besides Tappy Toes, First Steps Nursery Montessori, Dubai is a state-of-the-art facility that uses a blend of the British National Early Years guidelines and Montessori learning. Integrated Enrichment Activities program at FSNM includes field trips, outsourced gym sessions and music and arts program (dance, singing and mixing colours).
First Steps Nursery Montessori (FSNM) on Jumeirah Beach Road is operational in Villa # 10, Street 17A, Umm Suqeim 3.
That’s a wrap on our list of the best Montessori schools in Dubai. Take your time to research and then choose the Dubai Montessori that best suits your specific needs. There are also some top nurseries in Dubai that can prepare your child for life’s challenges in a progressively fun way.
If you are looking for a quality school for your toddler on a budget, check out our list of the most affordable nurseries in Dubai. All areas of Dubai have top options when it comes to early years education. For instance, these nurseries in Bur Dubai have experienced teachers and are perfectly equipped to help your child take the 1st steps on their academic journey.
All schools and nurseries operating in Dubai are closely monitored by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). So you can rest assured that your child’s academic future is in safe hands.
Want to know more about education in Dubai? Visit MyBayut for all the essential UAE academic info.
