The first three years are the most important – and should be treated with intention and care. There are four major early education paths that advocate for us grownups to better respect this period of infancy: RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers), Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf.

Summary: RIE is an infant and toddler care approach focusing on respect, observation, and responsive caregiving. It emphasizes treating babies as competent individuals and respecting their autonomy.

History & Founder: In the 1970s, Magda Gerber, a Hungarian educator and pediatrician, along with pediatric neurologist Tom Forrest, established RIE as an organization. RIE is rooted in the pioneering research and clinical contributions of Dr. Emmi Pikler in Budapest, Hungary, during the mid-20th century.

Key principles: RIE encourages caregivers to observe babies with empathy, provide a safe and uncluttered environment, and treat them as active caregivers and play participants.

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Summary: Montessori is an educational method and philosophy scientifically founded upon how children naturally learn from birth through adulthood. It is known for preserving agency curiosity while bolstering executive function skills and independence.

History & Founder: The Montessori method was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century.

Key principles: Montessori for babies emphasizes preparation – both of the adult, who must be ready to guide and connect, and of the physical home through what’s called “a prepared environment.” Montessori baby spaces are uncluttered and visually appealing to inspire baby to move freely and build their capacity to concentrate. Through the early years, there is a big emphasis on real-world information to help babies adapt to the world around them in a factual sense.

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Summary: Waldorf education is a progressive approach that aims to nurture a child's holistic development. Play is emphasized in early childhood, and academics are not formally introduced until after age six. There is also a noteworthy emphasis on developing the imagination early.

History & Founder: Waldorf education was founded by Rudolf Steiner, a world-renowned artist and scientist, in the early 20th century.

Key principles: In Waldorf-inspired early childhood programs, babies are exposed to a sensory-rich, rhythmical environment. There is an emphasis on natural materials, imaginative play, and minimal exposure to screens and technology. Caregivers often follow a daily routine, including storytelling and artistic experiences.

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Summary: The Reggio Emilia approach is an educational project that views children as active participants in their learning. It strongly emphasizes exploration, creativity, and collaboration, valuing the "100 languages of children" to express their thoughts and ideas.

History & Founder: The Reggio Emilia approach originated in the Reggio Emilia region of Italy in the late 19th century. It was inspired by the work of Loris Malaguzzi, a psychologist and educator, along with parents and teachers who collaborated to create a new educational approach.

Key principles: Reggio Emilia-inspired programs encourage children to explore their environment through play, art, and sensory experiences. They believe in documenting children's experiences to visualize creative processes. The hundred languages are a metaphor for the diverse potentials of children and the many ways knowledge is gained.

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Each method has its unique approach, and applying some principles that resonate with you from the start can be empowering.