“Education is not something which the teacher does, but that is a natural process which develops spontaneously in the human being.” – Dr. Maria Montessori 4 Beautiful Locations Islandwide At House on the Hill, we strive to embody the true Montessori method and philosophy in every lesson and activity. Book A Tour In a Montessori environment, the role of a teacher extends far beyond the traditional understanding of educational instruction. Montessori teachers are integral to nurturing your child’s learning journey, offering a transformative impact that supports long-term growth and development. Unlike in the traditional school setting where teachers might focus primarily on directive teaching, Montessori teachers serve as guides and facilitators, fostering a child’s natural curiosity and ability to learn independently. Becoming a Montessori teacher involves more than obtaining an academic degree; it requires a profound dedication to the Montessori principles of respecting each child’s individual learning path. This dedication is evident in their commitment to fostering academic skills and the holistic development of each child’s talents and abilities. At House on the Hill, our teachers are not only well-versed in early childhood education but are also deeply passionate about supporting each child’s journey towards achieving their highest potential. Our experienced and qualified teachers are aligned with our core values, ensuring a consistent and enriching learning environment that adheres to the Montessori method and philosophy. The Role of a Montessori Teacher In traditional educational settings, teachers often adopt a more structured and directive role, guiding children through a defined curriculum. This approach focuses on achieving specific learning outcomes through direct instruction. Meanwhile, Montessori teachers embrace a more fluid and adaptable role by facilitating a prepared environment wherein children can learn at their own pace.  Below are the roles of a Montessori Teacher: Guide The Montessori teacher acts as a guide, a role that is pivotal in fostering an environment where children learn to explore and discover on their own. The educator observes each student’s interests and developmental stage, gently steering them towards activities that align with their natural curiosities and learning pace.  Observer As observers, Montessori teachers carefully monitor each child’s progress and interactions. This allows them to adjust the learning environment and resources to meet individual needs effectively, ensuring a personalised and supportive educational experience. Facilitator As facilitators, Montessori teachers provide tools and support, allowing children to engage independently with materials that spark their curiosity. This approach helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they navigate their learning experiences independently, guided by the teacher’s expertise. Parent Partner At House on the Hill, teachers partner with parents to actively involve them in their child’s learning journey, ensuring regular communication and valuable feedback on their child’s progress and informed on themes and subjects explored. We also provide parenting support, resources, and workshops, along with opportunities to attend school events, all designed to create a supportive and connected parent community. How a Montessori Teacher Transforms a Child’s Learning By donning various roles in the classroom, Montessori teachers transform the learning experience from mere instruction and rote memorisation into a dynamic and interactive journey. They create an environment where children are encouraged to explore, question, and discover through guided inquiry. Montessori teachers provide an array of meaningful choices and tools that inspire effort and engagement. Their role is to carefully observe each child, understand their individual needs, and create an environment that fosters increasing independence. This approach helps children develop the ability to meet their own needs, form their own values, and shape their own lives. Igniting natural learning When Montessori teachers encourage children to connect with their environment and the materials provided, it sparks a natural and intrinsic desire to learn. This approach emphasises the importance of respecting and nurturing each child’s curiosity and drive for exploration. Encouraging independence Dr. Maria Montessori believed, “The greatest sign of success for a teacher… is to be able to say, ’The children are now working as if I did not exist.” The teachers build personal connections with each child and observe them closely to understand their individual needs. Once a child is inspired to engage independently with a material, teachers give them the space to work and start preparing for the next exciting step in their journey of achievement. This nurturing of autonomy builds confidence and cultivates a lasting sense of independence that benefits children as they grow. Promoting social harmony Montessori education focuses on group learning and creating a cooperative atmosphere. Montessori teachers facilitate lessons in a way that promotes social harmony, leveraging the benefits of mixed-age classrooms. This approach enhances collaboration skills across different age groups and nurtures a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Developing practical life skills At House on the Hill, we emphasise the importance of essential activities, enabling children to develop practical life skills that are integral to everyday living. Our practical life exercises focus on the care of self and routine daily activities, fostering independence and building self-esteem. Through these experiences, children not only gain lifelong skills but also grow in confidence, becoming more capable and self-reliant. Preparing for primary school and beyond Montessori teachers at House on the Hill prepare the children for the next milestone in their academic journey early, to help them develop greater confidence and better social skills as they make the transition into formal schooling, whether in local or international settings. The Montessori curriculum builds foundational academic, social and emotional skills that will benefit children in the long term. The Montessori teachers provide essential lessons that ensure a smooth and confident transition to primary school, setting a strong foundation for future success. Click here to read how we prepare children for primary school. Meet Montessori Teachers at House on the Hill Montessori Discover the dedicated team of Montessori teachers at House on the Hill Montessori by scheduling a visit. Our teachers are passionate about nurturing each child’s unique talents and skills, which are essential for everyday living and future success. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to see firsthand how

Finding the right preschool in Singapore can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time parent embarking on your child’s educational journey. Even for those who are more familiar with preschools, the distinctions between Montessori and other preschool approaches can often be unclear. This blog is here to help guide you through the Montessori method, offering insights and tips to ensure you choose the best preschool environment for your child’s needs and development. 4 Beautiful Locations Islandwide At House on the Hill, we strive to embody the true Montessori method and philosophy in every lesson and activity. Book A Tour What is a Montessori Preschool? The core of the Montessori philosophy is that education aligns with a child’s natural development. To understand this better, it’s useful to compare Montessori with traditional daycare settings. Traditional schooling often relies on seated learning and rote memorisation. In contrast, the Montessori method respects each child’s natural learning pace and integrates play into the educational process. In Montessori classrooms, child-centred learning is emphasised, allowing students to select their activities and advance at their own speed. The environment is carefully designed with engaging, accessible materials that invite exploration and self-directed learning. This autonomy promotes a strong sense of responsibility and curiosity. Educators in Montessori settings act as guides rather than direct instructors, observing and supporting activities based on each child’s interests and developmental readiness. What’s the best age to start Montessori schooling in Singapore? Preschools in Singapore vary in the ages at which they begin accepting children. Some preschools start as early as 2 months old, while others may begin at 18 months or 2 years. It’s important to check with each school to understand their age requirements and how their programs cater to different stages of early childhood development. This way, you can ensure that your child starts their educational journey at the right time and in the most suitable environment. Montessori preschools typically start accepting children from 2 months old. At House on the Hill, we offer a NIDO programme specifically designed for infants aged 2 months to 17 months. Following this, we have a playgroup for children aged 18 months to 2.5 years, and a pre-nursery for those aged 2.5 to 3.5 years. By the time children reach around the age of  3 years old, they are encouraged to transition into our Montessori mixed-age Nursery to Kindergarten preschool programme, where they continue their educational journey in a nurturing and stimulating environment. What are the advantages of attending a Montessori school? A Montessori school takes a holistic approach to education, not focusing on just academic achievements but on nurturing children’s talents, fostering community involvement, and teaching essential social skills for the next stages of their lives. One standout advantage of Montessori schools is their mixed-aged classrooms. In these settings, students ranging from 3 to 6 years old learn together, creating a unique dynamic. Younger children benefit by learning from their older peers, while older children reinforce their knowledge and develop teaching skills by guiding the younger ones. Another key advantage of Montessori schools is the emphasis on educational toys and manipulatives made from natural, aesthetically pleasing materials like wood. In a time when concerns about screen time and device use are prevalent in Singapore, these tools play a crucial role in promoting sensorial development and hands-on learning in a screen-free environment. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Montessori Preschool According to the 2022 Global Montessori Census, there are 63 Montessori schools in Singapore. While these schools share the same core philosophies, differences in programme implementation and curriculum can vary significantly. Here’s a checklist of key factors to consider when choosing the right Montessori Preschool for your child. Learning Environment  Visit the school and observe the classroom setup.  It should be a well-prepared, calm, organised environment with Montessori materials that encourage independence, exploration and learning. Moreover, the classroom should have child-sized furniture and materials neatly arranged on low shelves within easy reach. This setup encourages independence as children can freely choose and manage their learning tools, fostering self-guided exploration and responsibility. The room should also allow for freedom of movement, with all items accessible at the child’s eye level to enhance engagement. Curriculum and Activities Review the school’s curriculum to ensure it includes a balance of culture, language, mathematics, sensorial, and practical life.  At House on the Hill, we allow for uninterrupted work periods that encourage children to have focused work cycles. Additionally, we value the opportunities for social awareness experiences through our daily interactions with the children during group activities. Plus, our bespoke Mandarin programme provides an immersive environment for the children to develop a love for learning the language. Mixed-Age Classrooms Confirm that the school follows the Montessori practice of mixed-age classrooms, which fosters peer learning and social development. Through this arrangement, students are able to develop collaboration, patience, turn-taking, and leadership abilities. Mixed-age classes also foster natural learning opportunities where younger children can look to their older peers and learn from them. In turn, older children solidify their knowledge by teaching concepts they have already mastered. Montessori Didactic Materials  Montessori didactic materials are uniquely crafted to provide hands-on, concrete learning experiences, complete with visual aids that enable children to grasp complex ideas through manipulation and exploration. Each Montessori material is self-correcting, allowing children to independently recognise, correct, and learn from their mistakes. This autonomy boosts confidence and promotes active learning—a cornerstone of the Montessori philosophy. By engaging actively and enjoying the learning process, children develop a lifelong love for education. Montessori education serves as a solid foundation, preparing children to excel intellectually, socially, and emotionally and equipping them with the necessary skills for academic success and real-life challenges. Joyful, Independent Children  Look for environments that encourage joyful independence and focused, self-directed learning. These settings should allow children to progress at their own pace, which builds confidence through hands-on experiences. At House on the Hill, we integrate socialisation into the daily routine, from meal times to outdoor play, to ensure that essential social

Over the past two months, the children at House on the Hill were immersed in a vibrant musical journey exploring Traditional Chinese Folk Music with beautiful melodies and travelling through ancient and modern times to experience the profoundness of Chinese culture. Guided by three esteemed local musicians, each an expert in a classical instrument – the Pipa, Erhu, and Guzheng – the children embarked on a journey through time, immersing themselves in Chinese heritage and tradition. The 27 live sessions unveiled the enchanting sounds of Traditional Folk Music. During these special sessions, our Nursery – Kindergarten students had the opportunity to witness the beauty and elegance of traditional Chinese folk music first-hand. The visiting musicians showcased three exquisite instruments that hold a significant place in Chinese musical heritage. Mandarin has been an essential aspect of the curriculum since House on the Hill was founded in 2012. Our Mandarin program is cherished by both parents and children alike, playing a pivotal role in their linguistic and cultural education. Our students learning about Chinese Folk Music The Instruments The Pipa : The Pipa musician introduced the children to the basic structure of the Pipa, a traditional Chinese lute. They were invited to put on Pipa nail extensions and practice plucking the strings, producing clear and pleasant sounds. This hands-on experience allowed the children to appreciate the craftsmanship and unique qualities of the instrument. The Erhu: The Erhu musician demonstrated the versatility of this two-stringed instrument by simulating sounds such as birds chirping and horses neighing. The children listened with delight, captivated by the Erhu’s ability to mimic the sounds of nature and convey deep emotions through its melodies. The Guzheng:  The Guzheng musician guided the children step-by-step in playing simple melodies using nail extensions. The children were very excited and eager to try their hand at this ancient zither, known for its rich tones. They learned how to create beautiful music by plucking the strings, discovering the joy of playing the Guzheng. These captivating performances not only introduced our students to the enchanting world of traditional Chinese folk music but also fostered an appreciation for cultural diversity and artistic expression. At House on The Hill, we believe in cultivating cultural knowledge from a young age. Through this musical journey, the children not only learned new skills but also experienced the universal language of music in a profoundly enriching way. We look forward to more enriching experiences to nurture a profound understanding and appreciation for the Chinese heritage and traditions among the children!

4 Beautiful Locations Islandwide At House on the Hill, we strive to embody the true Montessori method and philosophy in every lesson and activity. Book A Tour The reflection on childhood memories of climbing trees, building cubby houses, and making mud pies highlights how risky play has always been an integral part of growing up. These activities weren’t just fun; they were crucial learning experiences where children made decisions, took risks, and learned from their mistakes. Risky play is a vital part of childhood development, offering children the opportunity to explore their limits, make decisions, and experience the consequences in a controlled way. The essence of risky play lies in providing challenges that stretch a child’s capabilities just enough to encourage growth without exposing them to significant danger. This kind of play allows children to develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and confidence. It helps them understand their own boundaries, how to navigate risks, and how to push themselves in a safe and healthy manner. Through risky play, children also learn about the world around them—how to interact with their environment, how to collaborate with others, and how to cope with uncertainty. Marilyn Ow, Principal at House on the Hill said, “Encouraging children to take risks in a safe environment is key to building confidence and self-belief. At House on the Hill, the focus is on creating a stimulating learning environment that immerses children in care, fun, and openness. This approach ensures that while children are exposed to risks, these risks are carefully managed to be as safe as possible”. “For example, when children navigate an obstacle trail under adequate supervision, they are not only learning to balance but also developing essential life skills. Strong balance is foundational for many activities that children will enjoy as they grow, like riding a bike or even learning to surf or ski”, Marilyn said. “Most children have an innate sense of their own risk tolerance, knowing when they’ve reached their limit. It’s the role of educators and caregivers to support and guide them, helping them learn from their mistakes and become bold, confident individuals. These experiences in taking risks and making decisions contribute to the development of well-rounded, resilient, and self-assured adults”. Marilyn said. 10 Risky Play Activities Below are 10 risky play activities ideas so children can explore, develop skills, and push their boundaries in a safe yet adventurous way. Each of these activities taps into children’s natural instincts for exploration, problem-solving, and creativity, while also helping them develop physical and social skills. Trees: Climbing trees provides children with a chance to engage with nature while building strength, coordination, and confidence. The challenge of navigating branches at different heights encourages problem-solving and risk assessment. Buildings  Exploring tall buildings or balconies introduces children to the concept of height risk. Looking down from a height or ascending large staircases can be thrilling and helps children understand their spatial environment. Logs  Climbing over fallen logs is a great introductory activity before tackling tree climbing. Logs help children develop balance, coordination, and agility, all while engaging with natural materials. Climbing Frames  Climbing frames are a staple in playgrounds, offering varying levels of difficulty to cater to different age groups. These structures help children develop basic climbing skills, strength, and confidence. Rope Swing  Rope swings provide a mix of speed and height, allowing children to experience the thrill of being slightly out of control. This activity is great for building upper body strength and coordination. Slides  Slides offer a controlled way for children to experience speed. The excitement of not knowing exactly how they will land promotes creativity and decision-making. Bikes Riding their bike fast introduces children to the thrill of speed and the risk of falling. It’s excellent for building leg strength, coordination, and the ability to navigate obstacles. Hide and Seek This classic game taps into the excitement of temporary isolation and the thrill of finding or being found. It encourages independence, spatial awareness, and social interaction. Rough and Tumble Rough and tumble play, such as chase and play fighting, allows children to explore physical boundaries in a safe and controlled environment. It’s crucial for developing social skills, understanding physical limits, and building resilience. Woodworking Activity Woodworking activities allow children to work with their hands, learn about different materials, and create something tangible. Whether it’s hammering nails, sanding surfaces, or using a saw, woodworking activities help children develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities These activities not only support physical development but also help children learn how to assess risks, make decisions, and build confidence in their abilities. TIPS Below are our tips to help parents encourage risky play with their child: Allow your child to learn to ride a scooter or bike on a road, sand or grass. Allow them to explore at the park within your sight, allowing safe boundaries to take risks, and find their threshold and their tolerance. Let young children crawl around on different textures such as mud, sand and water to encourage physical development. Let them smell and taste a variety of textures and foods. Risky play is about balancing freedom with safety, allowing children the space to explore and grow while ensuring they are protected from serious harm. It’s a crucial aspect of learning that equips children with the skills and confidence they need to navigate life’s challenges.

At House on the Hill, the children recently embarked on an exciting journey into the world of maps. Guided by our dedicated Teachers, they delved into understanding map keys, symbols, and even took the creative step of drawing their own maps. This interactive approach allowed them to quickly and enjoyably grasp these essential concepts, deepening their spatial thinking, geographical understanding, and problem-solving skills. By engaging with maps, they not only learned about geography but also developed valuable cognitive skills. Hands-on activities like these make abstract concepts more tangible and fun, which can greatly enhance learning and retention. Enhancing map skills with your child can be both fun and educational. Here are some effective ways to do so: 1. Read a Map Book Storytelling is a fantastic way to introduce children to map skills, combining education with entertainment. Here are three book recommendations that effectively incorporate map skills into engaging narratives: “Mapping Sam” by Joyce Hesselberth Follow the adventures of Sam, a curious cat, as she explores her neighbourhood and beyond,  using different types of maps. This book introduces children to various mapping concepts,  from neighbourhood maps to more abstract maps like constellations. “Me on The Map” by Joan Sweeney This book takes children on a journey from their bedroom to their house, street, town, and beyond. It provides a clear and relatable introduction to maps and how they represent different scales of the world. “Follow that Map! A First Book of Mapping Skills” by Scot Ritchie A group of friends sets out on a treasure hunt, using maps to find clues and solve problems along the way. This book is filled with practical exercises and examples that teach basic map skills in an interactive manner. 2. Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Map Skills One effective way to help your child learn map skills is by familiarising them with various types of maps. Discuss how different areas relate to each other, helping them understand their immediate environment and the connections between various locations. This exercise makes them excited about using maps and shows how maps help in planning and exploration. Start with the MRT System Map Introduce the Map: Show them the MRT system map and explain how it represents the train lines and stations. Station Names: Teach them how to read station names and recognise symbols for different lines. Routes and Transfers: Explain how to identify routes and understand where to transfer between lines. Practical Exercise: Plan a trip using the MRT map. Ask them to figure out the best route from one station to another. 2. Use a Simple Map of Singapore Identify Familiar Places: Point out key locations such as your home, their school, favourite parks, and other familiar spots. Relate Areas: Discuss how these places relate to each other. For example, how far is the school from home, and which direction is it? Create a Personal Map: Have them draw a simple map that includes their home, school, and favourite places. 3. Explore Maps of Tourist Attractions Zoo or Amusement Park Maps: Use maps of popular attractions like the zoo or an amusement park. Plan a Visit: Plan a visit together using the map. Discuss how to navigate the attraction, find different exhibits or rides, and plan a route. Engage with Landmarks: Encourage them to look for landmarks on the map and find them in the real world during the visit. 3. Mapping their House or Play Area Mapping familiar surroundings like their home or play area is an excellent way for children to grasp the concept of maps. This activity is not only engaging but also makes mapping personal and relatable. Here’s how to guide your child through the process: Explore the Area Walk Around Together: Take a tour of your house or play area with your child. Point out key features like rooms, furniture, doors, and windows. Discuss Observations: Encourage your child to observe and note down important details about the layout and key features. Draw a Simple Layout Start with Paper and Pencil: On a blank sheet of paper, help your child draw a basic layout of the area they explored. Identify Key Features: Mark the locations of rooms, furniture, doors, and windows. Ensure the layout is simple and easy to understand. Convert the Layout into a Map Introduce Map Symbols: Explain how to use symbols to represent different objects. For example, a rectangle can represent a bed, a square for a table, and lines for walls. Draw the Map: Guide your child in drawing the map, using the layout they created. Include symbols and ensure everything is proportionate. Label The Map: Help them label rooms and important spots, like “Living Room,” “Bedroom,” “Kitchen,” etc. Use simple and clear writing. 4. Map Puzzle Activity Creating a map puzzle is an excellent hands-on activity that combines creativity with learning, helping children develop spatial awareness and understand geographical locations. As they piece together different parts of the map, they learn about the relative positions of countries, states, or landmarks. Here’s a guide on how to create your own map puzzle. Here’s how: Buy a blank puzzle from a dollar store and let your child draw a map on the back. It could be a map of their house, neighbourhood, or even an imaginative world they create Once the drawing is complete, mix up the pieces Have them put it back together Tips for Engaging with Maps Start Simple Begin with basic maps and gradually introduce more complex ones as they become comfortable. Make it Fun Use games, puzzles, and interactive apps to make learning about maps enjoyable. Incorporate into their Daily Life Use maps in everyday activities, such as planning a family outing or finding a new restaurant. Encourage Questions Foster a curious mindset by encouraging questions about maps and geographical features. By integrating maps into your child’s daily life and making the learning process engaging, you can help them develop essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.