How do they feel - what's the atmosphere like? Arrive when the parents are either picking up or dropping off and get a sense for what the families are like, will you fit in well with you and viceversa.
In the end, if they are both so close, is the price different? Could that be what decides it for you.
I can't really comment on the Montessori kindergarten as I've never been to one, but have to say that my 2 older dd's went to a C & K kindy and we all absolutely loved it. I guess it is one of those things though, that it depends alot on the kind of program the teacher loves. Perhaps when you visit the C&K, ask them about their philosphy, and bring up some of the points that impress you with the Montessori program. You may find that they adopt many of the Montessori ideas.
good luck
One thing to think about is how tired you will be a the end of the day. A quick walk to pick up your DD & refresh yourself or having to drive the extra miles in traffic after Uni.
Sorry, just my practicable mind at work
I love the C&K kindy that my DD currently goes to, and my DS went to two years ago. It is just a fantastic place, with fantastic teachers who really nurture and encourage the children. I don't really know anything about Montessori, but I can definitely recommend C&K.
i would go the C&k, it is a community based care and so you could join in the parent committee if you wanted to and get some of the things you liked about montessori possibly included in the C&k group.
i tried to get into the c&k at deception bay but they had a massive waiting list :-(
This really isn't an easy one hun. I think so much depends on the child. I think C&Ks are excellent for most kids - DS1 is at one this year - but I don't think that it suits all kids. The same with Montessori - it is a great system, and I love their values. And I think it is particularly good for the kids that don't fit in so well at a C&K. But there will be other kids who don't do so well there, or if they do, they might not do so well going back into a more mainstream education system when they start school. WIthout knowing your DD, I couldn't begin to advise you on which way you should go.
FWIW we drive for 10 mins to get to day care and kindy and it's quite manageable, but an easy walk would be better. My DS1 has some special needs, so for me, finding the place where he will fit in best is more important than convenience. However this is probably different for a child who would do well at either place (which would be most kids I think).
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