Australia has quite a large Montessori following. Parents who look closely at the system, find their child is in a self empowering, self directed environment which provides the security the child requires to further their knowledge base through exploration.

In Australia, our climate and landscape are conducive to plenty of exploration out doors, where children can take in a wide variety of textures, smells, sounds and movements. The natural environment is so much more appealing to the child and should be a part of their daily activity.

Care of the environment is deeply ingrained in Montessori's philosophy. Research shows that adults who spent their childhood outdoors, are far more likely to develop a need to conserve our flora and fauna. As parents, we often share with our children the wonders of nature through books and documentaries but can instill an expectation in children which their own 'backyard' cannot meet. Take the time to explore the 'ordinary' with your child, you will both be pleasantly surprised at how extraordinary it really is.

We are also fortunate to be part of such a culturally diverse nation. To expose our children to the richness of our society, we demonstrate their place in this culture, and their worth as a part of the whole. In today's political and social climate, it is energising to raise children in a compassionate, conscious and investigative manner, which will hopefully influence how they themselves effect this earth.

Children respond well to stories of Australia's first people. The culture and lifestyle of the Aboriginal people is appealing to children and fosters a respect and love which in turn promotes a tolerance for and an understanding of our differences and similarities.