THE MONTESSORI PLAYROOM - FAQ

The Montessori Method refers to the pedagogical and philosophical approach to childhood and early education developed by Dr Maria Montessori. Montessori is so much more than wooden toys and trays! The Montessori Method puts children at the centre of their learning and focuses on hands on experience in a carefully prepared environment, following the child’s interests and respecting the inner life of the child. In addition to my teaching qualification, I have undertaken a year of study with Montessori Centre International in order to be a certified Montessori educator.

The Montessori Playroom is created and owned by a certified Montessori educator. I have completed a year of study with Montessori Centre International in Integrating Montessori Practice, and I bring this knowledge to everything I do in the Montessori Playroom. We carefully select the activities available to ensure they are aligned with Montessori principles and we put the child at the centre of the environment. At The Montessori Playroom, we offer children the freedom to move, choose and play at their own pace, following their own interests.

We primarily cater for children aged 0 - 6 years - those in their Absorbent Mind plane of development. However, we welcome older siblings too.

We are located in the centre of Gosforth on Elsdon Road, just off Salters Road and opposite Salters Road car park.

Yes, please. We limit numbers at The Montessori Playroom, to make sure each child has the space and time they need. We also collect allergy information before each session, so we can keep everyone safe. As such, it is difficult for us to accept walk ins (we also cannot currently accept card payments in person).

Surprisingly good considering we are in the centre of Gosforth! There are around 6 free spaces and 6 pay for spaces (90p per hour, PayByPhone) directly outside, and the same on Hedley Street. Between 11am - 3pm it is possible to park in the permit section of Elsdon Road and Hedley Street for free. It is free to park here all day on Saturday and Sunday. There is also the car park at Salters Road which is just over the road to us. I have never had an issue finding a space no matter what time I arrive!

Not really. At The Montessori Playroom we prioritise play, rather than it being an add on to a café. The space is set up for the child and puts the child at the centre of the experience. We do have snacks available for little ones, and free hot drinks are available for adults.

Absolutely. We just ask that you direct your little one to sit in one place while they eat (we have some high chairs available for babies) and you clean up after. Please do not allow children to walk around and handle activities while eating, so we can keep things clean and safe for everyone. We have a strict NO NUT policy.

This was a difficult decision as we know most play spaces charge varying amounts depending on the age of the child. However, most play spaces are often relying on parents spending £15-30 on drinks and food per visit. We provide free hot drinks for adults, free snacks for children and we are happy for you to bring your own snacks - this means that the cost of the session is all you need to spend to visit us. As we keep our numbers low to make the space comfortable for everyone, it is necessary for us to charge a flat rate in order to cover our costs, otherwise we would need to limit the number of baby spaces. We think our session cost is very reasonable for 1.5 hours of play, free hot drinks and free snacks and we do offer a reduced price for siblings. This approach also means the space is more accessible for those on a low income as there is no expectation to spend any money once you arrive.

Yes! We offer birthday party packages for up to 15 children on Saturdays and Sundays. Birthday parties are £250 and include: - Two hours exclusive hire - Food for up to 15 children - Your choice of theme from our wide selection - Free hot drinks for adults You can also hire the space during the week for a group of friends/NCT group subject to availability. The cost to hire the space for 1.5 hours exclusive use is £100 and includes hot drinks.