We started our time with Montessori gardens a few months ago. After moving my son from his previous daycare I was very worried we would never find somewhere who would accept Jack for who he is.
On the first meeting (tour) I instantly knew this was the right daycare for my Son. The educators were warm, welcoming, full of smiles, and the vibe was incredibly calm and happy. I discussed my concerns with Naomi (director) regarding Jack attending daycare as he has autism. His previous daycare proved to be the wrong environment, as they wanted Jack to fit in with everyone else, and not work with Jack to support all his unique ways and needs.
After talking with Naomi, I knew her centre could facilitate and support all of his needs. I was very confident with everything she said and the reassurance for his overall care and well-being whilst in their care made it that much easier for us to make the decision and enrol him.
From his first day I knew we had found the perfect place for Jack. Everyday since, he gets excited to go and has never once said no when asked if he wants to go to school. He walks in confidently and calmly, which never happened at his previous daycare. We are always greeted with a smile and hello from everyone there. Overall it’s just a lovely place to be and be a part of. This shows not only in my son, but the other children attending.
Any time I call, email or just pull Naomi aside for a chat regarding Jack, I am always met with her fullest attention. She has given me incredible ongoing support no matter what it relates to. Any time I need guidance or need to discuss any of Jacks issues with her I am always cared for and never pushed aside. Even when it’s visibly busy! she always makes the time for me.
Not only have I seen a massive improvement in Jacks development, my family is constantly praising him and how far he has come. Since starting he has improved his speech/communication, and comprehension skills. He is independently putting jobs away, toileting, packing away his bedding, and starting to communicate and show connections to the other children. This is all because he is able to flourish and learn in a safe, kind, clean, wonderful, and happy environment. He is developing and meeting milestones earlier than I ever expected him to, and it is 100% because of the care he receives at Montessori gardens
I see the impact of the level or care he receives just by how far he has come in such a short time. He has made strong connections with the educators, which is very rare for Jack and usually takes a long time to see, especially with other adults.
I cannot express the appreciation and respect I have for everyone involved in making this centre an absolute joy and delight for all the children. I’ve never seen my son so happy and engaged in learning. Which was my number 1 goal with sending him to daycare. I never thought I would find somewhere who gets him for exactly who he is and celebrates every uniqueness he has. NEVER ONCE has Naomi or the educators ever labelled Jacks autism or actions as behaviour. Never once have I felt unheard or unjustified in anything I have said or want done for Jack. So many times I’ve asked for Naomi’s professional opinion and support. The wealth of knowledge she has and is willing to share to support myself and Jack is outstanding and so appreciated.
If you are looking for somewhere who values children for exactly who they are, let’s their own uniqueness and abilities shine through without comparison of others, shows nurturing and respect, and goes above and beyond for the children and families, I would 1000% recommend Montessori Gardens.
I honestly feel this has been and will continue to be one of the best things Jack has ever been a part of. It’s not easy working in childcare and I take my hat off to all the educators, Melissa and Naomi for running a fantastic centre.
Thank you so much. I’m forever grateful to be part of the Montessori Gardens family ☺️
