What the environment looks like

• Low, open spaces designed for freedom of movement

• Natural light, soft colors, and minimal stimulation

• Safe floor areas for rolling, crawling, and early walking

• Simple, purposeful materials that support sensory and motor development

What infants are doing here

• Moving freely rather than being contained

• Developing coordination through natural movement

• Exploring their environment safely and independently

• Building early concentration and awareness

The adult’s role

• Respond promptly, calmly to physical and emotional needs

• Speak respectfully to infants, narrating care and movement

• Support independence by assisting self-expression and encouraging infants to do what they can for themselves

• Maintain predictable routines that build trust and security

• Caregiving moments (feeding, diapering, rest) are treated as meaningful interactions, not interruptions.

What infants gain in the Nido

• A strong sense of safety and trust

• Confidence in movement and bodily control

• Early concentration and engagement

• Sense of others, cooperation, socialization

• Secure attachment with teachers in a group setting

These foundations support emotional regulation and independence as the child moves into the Early Montessori Community.