Choosing the right early childhood education environment can feel overwhelming, but understanding what different approaches offer can help you make a great choice for your child. Three well-known methods stand out for their unique philosophies and practices: the Shichida Method, the Waldorf Steiner approach, and the Montessori Method. Each method offers distinct benefits, and understanding their differences can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s early learning journey.
The Shichida Method: Whole-Brain Development
Developed by Professor Makoto Shichida in 1958, the Shichida Method focuses on whole-brain development, aiming to stimulate both the right and left hemispheres of a child’s brain. This approach incorporates cognitive, emotional, and sensory activities designed to nurture creativity, memory, logic, and intuition. A hallmark of the Shichida Method is the active involvement of parents, who participate alongside their children in classes, reinforcing learning at home. Focused on encouraging parents to be the first and best teachers for their children, the SHICHIDA at Home program offers an online learning solution where families can experience the fun and world-renowned teaching curriculum from home.
Key features:
- Focus on right-brain and left-brain stimulation
- Emphasis on memory, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence
- Strong parent-child involvement
- Activities include visualisation exercises, memory games, high-speed flashcards and language development tasks
Understanding the Shichida Early Childhood Education Method Credit: oksanashufrych/Canva Images
The Montessori Method: Child-Led Learning
Pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, the Montessori Method is rooted in the belief that children are naturally curious and capable learners. This approach emphasises independence, self-directed activity, and hands-on learning in a prepared environment. Children choose their activities, encouraging autonomy and intrinsic motivation, while teachers act as guides rather than traditional instructors.
Key features:
- Child-centred, self-directed learning
- Hands-on materials that promote exploration and critical thinking
- Mixed-age classrooms encouraging peer learning
- Focus on practical life skills, sensory activities, and cultural studies
The Waldorf Steiner Approach: Imagination and Holistic Development
Founded by Rudolf Steiner in the early 20th century, the Waldorf Steiner approach emphasises holistic development, integrating intellectual, artistic, and practical learning. This method values imaginative play, storytelling, arts, and nature-based activities, stimulating creativity and emotional wellbeing. The curriculum is designed to align with the developmental stages of the child, with a strong focus on rhythm, routine, and connection to the natural world.
Key features:
- Emphasis on imagination, creativity, and the arts
- Integration of storytelling, music, and nature-based activities
- Focus on emotional, physical, and spiritual development
- Strong rhythms and routines to support learning
Comparing Key Aspects
Philosophy and learning approach
- Shichida: Structured activities focusing on whole-brain development with strong parental involvement.
- Montessori: Child-led, self-paced learning in a prepared environment, promoting independence.
- Waldorf Steiner: Holistic development through imaginative play, artistic expression, and natural rhythms.
Role of the teacher/parent:
- Shichida: Parents are active participants, reinforcing learning both in and outside the classroom.
- Montessori: Teachers act as guides, facilitating self-directed exploration, with parents supporting at home.
- Waldorf Steiner: Teachers are nurturers and role models, leading through example; parents are encouraged to maintain consistent rhythms and values at home.
Curriculum and activities:
- Shichida: Focus on cognitive exercises, memory training, language development, and emotional bonding.
- Montessori: Practical life tasks, sensorial activities, language, maths, and cultural exploration.
- Waldorf Steiner: Storytelling, arts and crafts, music, movement, and nature-based learning.
Social and emotional development:
- Shichida: Emphasis on emotional intelligence, parent-child bonding, and collaborative activities.
- Montessori: Mixed-age groups encourage peer mentoring, empathy, and cooperative learning.
- Waldorf Steiner: Focus on emotional well-being through artistic activities, storytelling, and strong classroom communities.
Which early childhood education option is right for you? Credit: lena_volo/Getty Images
Which Method is Right for Your Child?
Choosing the best educational method depends on your child’s learning style, family values, and educational goals. Some children thrive in the structured, parent-inclusive environment of Shichida, while others excel with the independence offered by Montessori or the imaginative, holistic focus of Waldorf Steiner.
Questions to Help You Decide:
Does my child prefer structured activities or independent exploration? If your child enjoys clear guidance and structured routines, they might benefit from methods like Shichida. For children who love making their own choices, Montessori could be a better fit.
How important is creative expression in my child’s daily routine? If creative activities like storytelling, drawing, or music are central to your child’s interests, the Waldorf Steiner approach may provide a nurturing environment.
Do I want to be actively involved in my child’s learning process? Shichida encourages strong parental involvement, while Montessori and Waldorf Steiner focus more on independent learning with supportive guidance from educators.
What values do I want my child to develop through their early education? Consider whether you prioritise academic excellence, independence, creativity, emotional growth, or a balanced combination of these qualities.
How does my child respond to social settings with mixed-age groups? If your child thrives in diverse social environments, Montessori’s mixed-age classrooms might be ideal. For children who prefer consistency, Shichida’s same-age group settings could be more suitable.
Reflecting on these questions can guide you towards an educational approach that aligns with your child’s unique needs and your family’s priorities, ensuring a strong foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Spanning Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
Feature Image: Credit: Sergey Novikov/Canva Images
