Join our parent-infant playgroups: at Heart of Houston Birth: April 7th - May 19th, Mondays 11:00am-12:00pm Register HERE
What can you expect at El Nido?
PLAY for your child
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COMMUNITY for you and your child
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SUPPORT for the whole family
Parent-Infant Classes
This group meets weekly in a small, intimate setting of 6-8 adults and 6-8 infants (6 weeks - early walkers). The environment is thoughtfully curated with simple toys to explore and plenty of room for infants to move in ways they are ready for.
Our parent-infant classes are inspired and guided by the respectful caregiving principles of RIE (Resouces for Infant educarers), a respectful caregiving philosophy by Magda Gerber.
Gather
After a round of introductions, we often check in with each other and share our joys, challenges & observations
Observe
We spend time observing babies at play, how they intrinsically move and explore in their own time and in their own way while engaging in discussion around these observations.
Reflect
We lean into these observations and discussions while reflecting on Magda Gerber’s thoughts and principles on respectful caregiving. With each gathering, we continue to deepen our understanding and attune to baby's cues.
Parent-Toddler Classes
(currently on pause)
A small intimate group of 6 adults and 6 toddlers. The classes are guided by both, RIE principles and Maria Montessori's principles. A Montessori-inspired environment prepared with “stage-appropriate” toys and materials offering plenty of opportunities for children to develop emerging gross and fine motor skills, language, and sensory experiences through different manipulatives, art, music, and food preparation. Our classes offer wonderful opportunities to guide the children's developing interactions and friendships in a safe, supportive environment.
A place to find friends and community while learning about Montessori, parenting and child development.
We welcome all caregivers to join our playgroup.
Follow the Child
We begin by following the child's interests. With observations, we understand what the child is ready for. The environment offers various experiences and opportunities for them to explore with curiosity!
Support Independence
"Help me to do it myself" is a child's bid for independence. In an environment designed for children to learn new skills that support their independence, children gain confidence as they master life skills that can easily be adopted in your home.
Respect
"Respect" is at the heart of Montessori and RIE philosophies. As a parent and caregiver you will have plenty of opportunities to take home respectful & empowering communication, and also gain understanding & guidance around their socio-emotional development.
"To assist a child, we must provide him with an environment that will enable him to develop freely."
Maria Montessori
