Long Live Childhood.
Who we are
At Northern Roots, we believe no single philosophy can meet the needs of every child, every day. Instead, we have thoughtfully combined the strongest elements of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Waldorf, and STEAM to create a flexible, balanced, and meaningful early learning experience. Each method contributes something unique, and together they form an approach that supports the whole child—emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively.
Although Reggio Emilia, Waldorf and Montessori differ in methods, they all honor the same core ideas:
Deep respect for each child
Hands-on, experimental learning
Beautiful, intentional classroom environments
Observation-based teaching
Independence, creativity, and joyful exploration
This shared foundation makes blending them both natural and powerful.
How We Blend it All
Reggio Emilia
Inquiry • Collaboration • Expression
What we take from this approach:
Children are capable, curious thinkers
Learning grows through exploration, conversation, and project work
The environment acts as a “third teacher”
Teachers observe, listen, and extend learning
Documentation helps us understand and celebrate children’s ideas
How this looks in our classrooms:
Open-ended provocations
Long-term projects
Warm, natural materials
Spaces arranged to invite creativity and connection
Waldorf
Imagination • Rhythm • Nature
What we take from this approach:
Childhood should feel warm, beautiful, and imaginative
Rhythm brings security to the day
Nature and sensory experiences enrich learning
How this looks in our classrooms:
Natural textures, soft lighting, and simple beauty
Seasonal stories, storytelling, and sensory play
Calm, predictable transitions
A focus on wonder, imagination, and connection
Montessori
Independence • Purpose • Respect
What we take from this approach:
Children thrive when they can make meaningful choices
Independence builds confidence and responsibility
Materials should be accessible, intentional, and inviting
How this looks in our classrooms:
Child-height shelves and materials
Real-life tasks (pouring, cleaning, caring for plants)
Predictable routines that support confidence
Opportunities for children to care for themselves and their environment
STEAM
(Science. Technology. Engineering. Art. Math.)
Building • Experimenting • Problem-Solving
What we take from this approach:
Children learn through hands-on discovery
Creativity and engineering go hand-in-hand
Questions and experimentation are essential parts of learning
How this looks in our classrooms:
Loose parts, blocks, and natural building materials
Simple science investigations
Creative problem-solving experiences
Art woven into science and engineering play
Encouragement to test ideas, revise, and try again
Learn more about each learning style here:
Contact us
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