← Back to the blog · May 15, 2026

The role of the family in online Montessori education

One of the deepest differences between a traditional school and a project like Open Montessori is the place the family holds. Here, parents and caregivers are not spectators who receive a report card at the end of the semester: they are an active and essential part of the educational process.

The family as a prepared environment

In Montessori we talk about the "prepared environment" as the space surrounding the child that allows them to learn with autonomy. When education is online, that environment is the home. And the one who prepares it, cares for it and maintains it is the family. This doesn't mean parents have to be teachers: it means the home becomes a space where learning happens naturally.

What role does the family play at OM?

• Prepare the space: a quiet corner with accessible materials, a table at their height or a mat on the floor. Nothing sophisticated is needed.
• Support without directing: being emotionally present, not correcting every step. Montessori teaches us to trust the child's capacity.
• Facilitate the offline work: the work plans sent by the Guides include hands-on activities, reading and practical life. The family helps ensure the child has what they need to carry them out.
• Maintain the routine: structure and predictability give the child security. It's not about rigidity, but about a framework that lets them know what to expect.
• Communicate with the Guides: at OM the family-school communication is constant. The Guides know each student and their family, and are available to give guidance.

"But do I have to act as a teacher?"

No. OM's Guides are the professionals who design, plan and assess learning. The family supports the process from its natural role: that of father, mother or caregiver. You don't need to know about pedagogy, or mathematics, or have full-time availability. What you need is to be present and trust the process.

Professional support for families

We know that educating at home can raise doubts, insecurities and difficult moments. That's why at OM we have a psychologist for families who supports not only the students, but also the adults. Guidance in respectful parenting, setting limits, emotional support during moments of transition (like leaving traditional school) and more.

The family as a community

At OM you are not alone. Families form a community that supports one another, shares experiences and grows together. When you choose a different education for your child, knowing that there are other families on the same path makes all the difference.

Want to know more about how we experience education as a family? Schedule your presentation or write to us on WhatsApp.