ABSTRACT
This chapter explains link between the Early Years Foundation Stage and Montessori early years practice. It will reflect on the principles which underpin both approaches and make links with the statutory guidance. The Montessori community were given an opportunity to reflect on their practice in relation to the Early Years Foundation Stage by producing the Guide to the Early Years Foundation Stage in Montessori Settings. The deep respect for the child is reflected in the Montessori pedagogy, which is built on access to a favourable environment prepared to meet the individual childs needs and facilitation of learning by empathetic and knowledgeable practitioners. Practitioners are required to consider the following five aspects as essential in supporting the characteristics of the unique child. To ensure effective learning and development they must: Understand and observe children; Support development of positive sense of identify and culture; Identify additional needs; Keep children safe; and Value and respect children and families equally.
