In November I was lucky enough to participate in a Leonardo Mobility International study visit to Florence to observe first-hand The Tuscan Approach to childcare. The trip was organised by Early Childhood Ireland in consultation with the host organisation Istituto Degli Innocenti, Florence.  

The group visited some quality childcare services in Pistoia and San Minato. In Tuscany there is twice as much space allocated to each child as in Ireland. Those studying Montessori will be interested to note that most of the equipment and resources were made from natural materials. The environment was aesthetically pleasing; the walls painted in neutral colours providing a canvas for the children’s photographs and work.  Some of the services had outdoor equipment similar to that seen in Ireland, however there were lots of green areas which contained trees and plants. In one of the services the manager explained that they had visited Finland and appreciated the outdoor equipment but felt it was very expensive and the garden is a ‘sacred place’ with lots of interesting things for children to do and learn about. Contemporary artists have been asked to come up with alternative ideas for the garden; these ideas will be embodied in the garden.

Art is a very important part of children’s education in Tuscany. One of the art facilities available to children of all ages and their families was decorated with a fresco, not of cartoon characters but depicting biblical stories. Here children are taught how to go about producing a masterpiece. Another art facility which is used by many different schools in the area provides a large space and a copious supply of materials for the children to use. The children’s art is treated with great respect, often framed in oak frames, protected with Perspex and hung at the child’s level (about two feet from the floor).

·         Support the professionalism of ECEC staff.

·         Support parents in their role as the main educators of their children.

For all of us working in childcare the path ahead is full of challenges with cuts to services and families experiencing economic pressures. Dr. John Bennett emphasised the need for children to be outdoors more than they are.  Children need to experience the outdoors first hand as this will enhance their understanding of the world they live in and support language development.  Prof. Enzo Catarsi reminds us all that; “In these times of economic crisis we must bring beauty and joy to parents and Children”. The people of Tuscany do this through appreciation of what the outdoor environment the ‘sacred garden’ and art have to offer.

Cindy Lawson, Montessori Tutor CFE Dundrum