The Similarities and Differences between Waldorf, Reggio Emilia and Montessori approaches

Waldorf, Reggio Emilia and Montessori are three enlightened approaches to early childhood education that have many points in common. 

In each approach, children are viewed as active authors of their own development, strongly influenced by natural, dynamic, self-righting forces within themselves, opening the way toward growth and learning. Teachers depend for their work with children on carefully prepared, aesthetically pleasing environments that serve as a pedagogical tool and provide strong messages about the curriculum and about respect for children. Partnering with parents is highly valued in all three approaches, and children are evaluated by means other than traditional tests and grades.

 

Waldorf Philosophy

This play-based approach is characterized by a predictable structure, providing children with a dependable routine, such as certain days of the week for set activities like baking or gardening, as well as mixed-age classrooms with the same teacher for multiple years.  Waldorf does not include media (computers, videos or electronics of any kind) and also does not involve academics, which means no homework, tests, hand-outs or even desks. Children are introduced to formal reading skills in the first grade. The programs are “all-weather” and children spend a lot of time outdoors.

 

Reggio Emilia Philosophy

Reggio Emilia schools are known for a project-based approach, children learn all about cooperation through the many projects, particularly how to solve problems and resolve conflicts.  In a project-based curriculum, lessons are based on the interest of the students.  The overall philosophy is that kids are really encouraged to explore and teachers are there to help children explore.  Reggio Emilia programs are also known for documenting what children do, taking photos, making videos, writing observations. Then children and teachers can review what they’ve done throughout the year.

 

Montessori Philosophy

This approach is child-centred, with teachers serving as guides.  In the Montessori school, play is a child’s work and there is a focus on academics, the distinguishing feature is that children learn at their own pace, furthermore, there are range of materials and methods to aid them in their development, cognitive and others.  Montessori emphasise the importance and connection of all living things, and the need for each person to find meaningful work and his or her own place in the world.  Children learn about other cultures, animals, and plants in addition to reading, language, and mathematical skills.

 

 The table below shown the similarities and differences of three approaches

 

Approaches	The Waldorf (Rudolf Steiner) approach	Reggio Emilia approach	Montessori approach
Similarities	Create a comfortable, homelike environment that offers children plenty of opportunities to freely imitate what they see and to indulge in creative.	Children are really encouraged to explore and teachers are there to help children explore and to facilitate the child's learning by planning activities and lessons based on the child's interests.	Encourage a child's sense of independence and according to his/ her interests.
Differences	Does not include ICT (computers, videos or electronics of any kind).	Teachers are encouraged actively engaging in the activities alongside the child, instead of sitting back and observing the child learning.   Teachers need documenting what children do, taking photos, making videos, writing observations.	Montessori curriculum focuses on five areas:-       I.        Practical life   II.        Sensory awareness education III.        Language arts IV.        Mathematics and geometry    V.        Cultural subjects