Toronto is home to a diverse range of educational opportunities, and for parents seeking a unique and child-centered approach, the city boasts some of the 7 best Montessori schools. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, these schools emphasize hands-on learning, independent exploration, and personalized development tailored to each child’s pace. Whether you’re looking for early childhood programs or advanced learning for older children, Montessori schools in Toronto offer a nurturing environment designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love for learning. Below are key services, considerations, and pricing details to help guide your decision:
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1. Alive Montessori and Private School
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4,8/5
2 Wembley Rd, M6C 2E9, Toronto
- Montessori school
Why we chose them
Alive Montessori and Private School stands out for its commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating educational environment for children from preschool to elementary levels. With a foundation rooted in the Montessori philosophy, the school emphasizes the development of self-reliant, confident, and capable individuals. By fostering a love for learning in a safe, clean, and family-like atmosphere, the school offers a unique blend of Montessori principles and the Canadian curriculum to ensure students are well-prepared for future academic and life challenges. Small class sizes and individualized programming ensure personalized attention, allowing each child to learn at their own pace and build a strong foundation in reading, writing, and arithmetic.
In addition to its core academic offerings, the school provides a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including music, dance, drama, yoga, and coding, ensuring holistic development for every student. Special events like the Multicultural Fair and Earth Day celebrations further enrich the learning experience, promoting cultural awareness and environmental stewardship. Guided by a team of dedicated educators, the school creates an engaging, play-based learning environment that inspires curiosity and creativity. With a mission to unlock each child’s potential, the school truly exemplifies the Montessori belief that education is the key to transforming lives and shaping the future.
2. Humberside Montessori School
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4,2/5
121 Kennedy Ave, M6S 2X8, Toronto
- Montessori school
Why we chose them
Humberside Montessori School offers a nurturing environment that prioritizes the holistic development of children from ages 2 ½ to 14 years. Rooted in the educational philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, the school emphasizes the natural growth and independence of each child while helping them reach their fullest potential. With programs tailored to specific developmental stages, students advance through three levels: Casa (ages 2 ½ to 6), Elementary (ages 6 to 12), and Adolescence (ages 12 to 14). Each classroom is equipped with AMI-approved materials and led by AMI-certified teachers, ensuring a high standard of Montessori education and individualized learning experiences.
The school is dedicated to creating a happy and stimulating environment where children are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and personally. It strictly adheres to the Montessori principle of education as an aid to life, fostering curiosity, self-confidence, and independence. Additional services include before-care, offered at no charge, and after-care available until 6:00 PM for an added cost. By emphasizing the importance of completing each developmental level, the school ensures a seamless progression in learning, making it an exceptional choice for families seeking a transformative educational experience for their children.
3. Discovering Minds Montessori School Inc
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4,8/5
828 Richmond St W, M6J 1C9, Toronto
- Day care center
- Primary school
Why we chose them
Discovering Minds Montessori School Inc. stands out as a premier Montessori institution in Toronto, offering a comprehensive early childhood education program rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori. Specializing in services such as day care and primary school education, the school caters to children aged 30 months to 6 years, fostering their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development during their formative years. With a thoughtfully prepared learning environment and an emphasis on engaging each child’s innate potential, the school provides a nurturing space for growth through programs like preschool, JK/SK, French immersion, and foreign language learning.
Renowned for its innovative approach, the school combines the Montessori method’s child-centered educational philosophy with modern practices to prepare children not only for academic success but for life itself. By encouraging curiosity and self-initiated learning, it ensures that students develop foundational skills in a supportive and creative atmosphere. Whether parents are seeking early childhood education, infant day care, or a private school experience, the institution’s dedication to excellence makes it a valuable addition to our directory.
4. Manor Montessori School
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5,0/5
14 De Savery Crescent, M4S 2L2, Toronto
- General education school
Why we chose them
Manor Montessori School stands out as an independent educational institution in Midtown Toronto, offering a superior alternative to traditional schooling methods. Since 1994, the school has been providing individualized 1:1 learning, fostering self-development and independence through its authentic Montessori programs. Students thrive in a collaborative environment with highly trained educators, gaining a strong foundation in early reading, writing, and math. The curriculum is enriched with French, Music, Arts, Physical Education, and extracurricular activities, ensuring a well-rounded education tailored to each child’s needs.
With thoughtfully designed programs for toddlers, Casa students, and elementary learners, the school nurtures confident, well-rounded individuals at every stage of their educational journey. French lessons are a standout feature, preparing students for advanced immersion programs. Manor Montessori’s two conveniently located campuses—North Campus in Sherwood Park and South Campus in Davisville Village—offer a welcoming space for students to grow and explore. This commitment to excellence makes the school a trusted choice for parents seeking a holistic and dynamic learning experience for their children.
5. Westside Montessori School
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4,3/5
95 Bellevue Avenue, 57 Sylvan Ave, M5T 2N8, Toronto
- Montessori school
- Day care center
- Elementary school
- Kindergarten
- Middle school
- Primary school
Why we chose them
Westside Montessori School stands out for offering authentic and accredited Montessori programs tailored to children from 18 months to 14 years old. With a strong focus on fostering academic, social, and emotional growth, the school provides individualized lessons and inquiry-based learning environments. Its programs encompass toddler care, kindergarten, elementary education, and middle school, ensuring students develop self-confidence and a genuine love for learning. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the school operates across two campuses—Kensington Market and Dufferin Grove—providing an ideal urban setting for families seeking comprehensive educational support.
Since its founding in 2008, the school has consistently grown, now hosting over 160 students across its two locations. The thoughtfully designed classrooms cater to the developmental needs of children, promoting independence, collaboration, and academic curiosity. Beyond academics, older students engage in community volunteering and entrepreneurial initiatives, embodying the school’s values of community, kindness, and environmental respect. With its CCMA accreditation and emphasis on preparation for life, this institution is committed to nurturing compassionate and capable individuals ready to excel in all aspects of their journey.
6. Monarch Park Montessori School
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5,0/5
201 Monarch Park Ave, M4J 4R9, Toronto
- Montessori school
Why we chose them
Monarch Park Montessori School has established itself as a trusted educational institution since its founding in 2012, specializing in nurturing the growth of toddlers and preschoolers aged 18 months to 5 years. Following the renowned Montessori philosophy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, the school creates a meticulously prepared environment that fosters exploration, creativity, and independence during the critical early years of development. Its licensed programs, including the Toddler Program and Preschool Casa Program, are thoughtfully designed to support children’s emotional, sensory, and intellectual growth through hands-on learning and the use of specialized pedagogical tools. The school also offers extracurricular activities such as music, French, and chess, ensuring a well-rounded experience tailored to young learners.
The faculty at the school is composed of certified Montessori educators and Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECE), approved by the Ministry of Education, reflecting their dedication to providing high-quality care and instruction. Parents consistently praise the school for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and the genuine interest that the staff shows in each child’s development. Testimonials highlight the school’s ability to prepare children for future success, both academically and socially, through its unique approach and organized environment. With its spacious classrooms, abundant natural light, and adherence to the Child Care Early Years Act (CCEYA), the institution stands out as an ideal setting for nurturing young minds to explore, absorb, and excel.
7. Blue Butterfly Montessori School
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4,6/5
300 Richmond St W, M5V 1X2, Toronto
- Montessori school
- Day care center
- School
Why we chose them
Blue Butterfly Montessori School offers a nurturing and stimulating environment where children learn at their own pace, guided by the principles of the Montessori method. Established in January 2013 and located in downtown Toronto, the school provides tailored programs for toddlers (18 months to 2.5 years) and preschool-aged children (2.5 to 6 years). With a focus on practical life skills, sensory development, mathematics, language, and cultural studies, the programs are complemented by extracurricular activities such as art, music, French, yoga, and outdoor play. Known for its caring and non-competitive atmosphere, the school emphasizes universal values like self-respect, respect for others, and environmental stewardship, fostering a lifelong love of learning in children.
The school prides itself on its qualified and dedicated staff, including Montessori-certified educators, registered early childhood educators, and trained assistants, all of whom maintain high standards of safety and care. The thoughtfully designed facilities, including indoor and outdoor play areas, promote autonomous behavior and physical development. Families appreciate the personalized approach to education and the strong emphasis on collaboration between parents and educators to ensure the well-being and smooth transition of children into their future academic and social lives. This commitment to excellence makes the school a standout choice in the realm of education and childcare.
Frequently asked questions
What services do Montessori schools in Toronto typically offer?
Montessori schools in Toronto provide child-centered learning environments with mixed-age classrooms, hands-on educational materials, and an emphasis on developing social, emotional, and academic skills. They also focus on fostering independence, creativity, and critical thinking through personalized teaching methods.
How much does Montessori school tuition cost in Toronto?
The tuition for Montessori schools in Toronto typically ranges between €7,500 and €18,000 per year, depending on the age group, program type, and school facilities.
What age groups are accepted at Montessori schools?
Montessori schools generally accept children as young as 18 months for toddler programs, with offerings for preschool, elementary, and sometimes middle school levels, depending on the institution.
How do I choose the right Montessori school for my child in Toronto?
When choosing a Montessori school, consider factors such as the school's accreditation, the qualifications and experience of the teachers, the proximity to your home, the curriculum offered, and how well the school aligns with your child’s learning style and needs.
Are Montessori schools in Toronto accredited?
Not all Montessori schools in Toronto are accredited. Look for schools affiliated with reputable organizations like the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) or the American Montessori Society (AMS) for assurance of quality and adherence to Montessori principles.
What is the typical class size in a Montessori school?
Class sizes in Montessori schools are generally small, with mixed-age groups that can range from 15 to 30 students per classroom, depending on the school and the age group.
When should I apply for a Montessori school in Toronto?
Applications for Montessori schools typically open several months before the start of the academic year, often around October to January. It’s advisable to apply early, as spaces can be limited and competitive.
What are the key differences between Montessori and traditional schools?
Montessori schools emphasize self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and mixed-age classrooms, whereas traditional schools often follow a structured curriculum with same-age groupings. Montessori focuses on fostering independence, creativity, and intrinsic motivation, rather than relying on grades or standardized testing.
