When school ends, a long stretch of holidays opens up for the children, but parents' work carries on. This is where one of summer's most common decisions arises: enrol the children in a summer camp, or rely on a dedicated babysitter at home?

There's no single right answer for every family. The best choice depends on your children's age, your routine and what you're looking for over these weeks. In this article, we'll help you compare the two options clearly — and work out which makes most sense for you.

Summer camp or babysitter: what's the difference?

a summer camp is a group programme, away from home, with fixed hours and themed activities

a dedicated babysitter is individual, personalised care, usually at home, with flexible hours

. They're different approaches, with different strengths, which is exactly why it's worth looking at each before deciding.

Summer camps have clear merits, especially for school-age children:

They're an excellent option for parents who want their children to experience summer in a group and build independence.

What are the advantages of a dedicated babysitter?

A dedicated babysitter meets needs that a camp, by its nature, can rarely cover:

It's the natural choice for parents seeking close, personalised care, tailored to the family's logistics.

Quick comparison: summer camp vs dedicated babysitter

How do you choose? The right questions to ask

Before deciding, it's worth answering a few questions honestly:

That last question matters, because the choice doesn't always have to be one or the other.

It was precisely with this in mind that we created the 

 to your home — the best of both worlds. Children enjoy rich, fun, structured days, as they would at a camp, but with the individual attention, comfort of home and flexible hours of personalised care.

It's a way to make sure your children's summer is full of experiences, led by trusted professionals, even on the days your routine can't pause. Book by 

 to enjoy our Early Bird benefit, with 5% off. 

Summer camp or babysitter: which is better for young children?

 For babies and very young children, the individual care of a babysitter at home tends to be more suitable, offering personalised attention, comfort and a familiar setting.

From what age do children benefit from a summer camp?

 In general, summer camps are better suited from school age, when a child copes better with group dynamics and with being away from the home environment.

Can a summer babysitter run activities like a camp?

 Yes. The Baby Sisters Summer Packs, for instance, include a weekly programme of activities at home, combining the richness of a camp with the individual attention of a babysitter.

How do you choose between a summer camp and a babysitter?

 The decision depends on the children's age, each child's needs, your working hours and what you value — more social time and structure, or more flexibility and personalised care.

Summer Camp or a Dedicated Babysitter? How to Choose

Campos de férias ou babysitter dedicada no verão? Como escolher

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Montessori Method!

As parents, we understand that choosing the right educational approach for your child is a crucial decision. With so many different methods available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will best suit your child's needs and provide them with a solid foundation for their future.

In this guide, we will explore the Montessori Method, and its basis, explore some of its key principles, identify how Baby Sisters' babysitters apply this method in their babysitting services, and last, highlight Montesorry Schools in Portugal by area (Porto, Lisboa and Algarve).

The Montessori Method is an Educational approach 

an Italian physician and educator, in the early 20th century. 

Dr. Montessori believed in the innate abilities of children to learn and develop at their own pace,

 and she designed an environment that fosters independence, creativity, and a love for learning.

Dr. Maria Montessori was a trailblazer in the field of early childhood education. Her innovative approach to education continues to influence educators around the world. 

Understanding the background and philosophy of Maria Montessori can provide valuable insights into the Montessori Method. 

Maria Montessori dedicated her life to the study and understanding of childhood development. She believed that every child has the innate desire and ability to learn and grow. Her passion for children's education led her to develop an approach that respects the individuality of each child and nurtures their natural curiosity.

Maria Montessori's approach to education was grounded in extensive observation and scientific research. She observed children in diverse environments and cultures, refining her methodology based on their unique needs and developmental stages. Her scientific approach continues to be a hallmark of the Montessori Method.

Maria Montessori's vision of education was not limited to early childhood but extended to all stages of development. She believed in providing a continuum of education, from birth to adulthood, that supports the holistic development of each individual.

With her emphasis on independence, respect, and a love for learning, Maria Montessori's legacy lives on in thousands of Montessori schools worldwide. Her principles and materials continue to transform the lives of children, equipping them with the skills and mindset necessary for success in an ever-changing world.

In a Montessori classroom, the teacher takes on the role of a facilitator rather than a traditional instructor.

each child's unique interests, strengths, and challenges, and provide guidance and support accordingly.

creates an environment that encourages self-directed learning,

 allowing the child to explore and discover knowledge through hands-on activities.

One of the distinguishing features of the Montessori Method is the use of specially designed materials. 

These materials serve as tools for learning and provide opportunities for children to develop various skills and concepts. We further explore some Montessori-dedicated educational materials.

Sensorial materials are designed to enhance a child's sensory perception and exploration. They provide experiences that refine their senses, such as comparing colors, sizes, shapes, textures, and sounds. These materials help develop the child's ability to make precise observations and discriminate between different stimuli.

Practical life materials are everyday objects that children can use to practice life skills. They include activities such as pouring, buttoning, sweeping, and tying shoelaces. These materials help children develop coordination, concentration, independence, and a sense of order.

Montessori math materials provide concrete representations of abstract mathematical concepts. They allow children to explore and internalize concepts such as numeration, place value, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These materials provide a solid foundation for mathematical understanding.

Language materials in the Montessori classroom focus on phonetic understanding and early literacy skills. Children use tactile letters to build words and sentences, develop vocabulary through reading activities, and explore grammar and syntax through various materials and exercises.

The Montessori Complete Journey: Baby Sisters as Your Partner Along the Way

As a parent, you can support your child's Montessori journey by creating a Montessori-inspired environment at home, encouraging independence, following their interests, and fostering a love for learning. By embracing the Montessori Method, parents can provide a solid foundation for a child's future success and education.

If you want this education to extend to babysitting care, looking for babysitters who are well-versed in this special background, and knowledgeable about the Montessori approach, you can surely reach out to us. We have babysitters on the team who are experienced in these areas and dedicated to providing enriching experiences for your children. We'll be happy to connect you with a babysitter from our team who aligns with your preferences and values, ensuring your peace of mind while your children are in our care.

Here are a few ways you can nurture your child's Montessori journey:

Create a Montessori-inspired environment at home:

 Arrange your child's toys and materials in an organized and accessible manner, allowing them to make independent choices and engage in purposeful activities.

: Give your child opportunities to practice life skills such as dressing themselves, preparing simple snacks, or cleaning up after themselves. Foster their sense of responsibility and self-reliance.

Observe your child's natural interests and provide them with appropriate materials and resources to explore those subjects further. Follow their lead, and let their curiosity guide their learning.

 Create a positive and supportive learning environment at home. Engage in meaningful conversations, read together, and encourage your child's natural enthusiasm for discovering the world around them.

Montessori Education is a popular choice among parents in Portugal who value independence, creativity, and a love for learning. 

Montessori Schools per region in Portugal 

that provide high-quality education inspired by the Montessori Method.

: Located in Alvalade, Lisbon, for kids from 4 months to 12 years old

 Situated in Cascais, Montessori Kids Lisbon offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2.5 to 12 years old. 

: Located in Lisbon, for children from 4 to 36 months. 

: in Lisbon, from 18 months to 3 years old. 

 in Quinta da Marinha, Cascais, from 3 to 18 years old. 

: Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, for kids from 18 months to 3 years old. 

 Located in Senhora da Hora, Matosinhos, 18 months to 9 years old. 

: Located in Porto, from 4 months to 6 years old. 

Montessori Method is not just a teaching approach, but a way of life

. By embracing its principles and creating an environment that fosters independence, respect, and a love for learning, you are laying the foundation for a lifetime of success for your child.

At Baby Sisters, we are deeply committed to delivering top-notch education, and within our team, we boast 

and insight into various teaching methodologies

Trust us with your child's education, and together, we can create a bright future for your little one. Get in touch and let us find the perfect match for your family here: 

Child Education

Summer Camp or a Dedicated Babysitter? How to Choose

Navigating Montessori: A Parent's Complete Handbook

Summer Camp or a Dedicated Babysitter? How to Choose

Navigating Montessori: A Parent's Complete Handbook