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Shalini Giridharan
Shalini Giridharan
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| Born | India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Residence | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Education | MSc (Science), B.Ed., PG Diploma in Montessori Education |
| Occupation | Educationist, Montessori Specialist, Edupreneur |
| Alma mater | Madras University |
| Years active | 2019–present |
| Known for | Founder of Magic Kids Montessori Preschool; Founder of Magic Academy Education Trust |
Shalini Giridharan is an Indian educationist, Montessori specialist and Edupreneur. She is the founder of the Magic Kids Montessori Preschool and the Magic Academy Education Trust, recognized for designing reflective, child-centric learning environments that foster inquiry, independence and emotional intelligence among young learners.
Early life and education
Shalini pursued higher studies in science, completing her MSc, followed by a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.). Driven by her passion for early childhood care and pedagogy, she further earned a Post-Graduate Diploma in Montessori Education.
As an alumna of Madras University, she developed her instructional foundations and theoretical understanding of child development, which later shaped her educational philosophy.
Career
Shalini Giridharan began her journey as an educator guided by a deep conviction in children’s innate potential. Trained in Montessori principles, she envisioned schools as nurturing spaces where children think, reflect, explore and grow at their natural pace.
Magic Kids Montessori Preschool
In 2019, she founded the Magic Kids Montessori Preschool in Tharamani, Chennai. The institution started with a single child but grew rapidly owing to its inquiry-based pedagogy, personalised attention and supportive community of parents.
Magic Academy Education Trust
Building on the preschool’s success and rising local demand, she established the Magic Academy Education Trust in 2025.
The trust was developed as an extension of her vision to create learning environments as “reflective mediums” — spaces where children can experiment, express curiosity and unlock their sense of self.
Vision and philosophy
She advocates learning frameworks that place the child at the centre of discovery. Her educational philosophy blends Montessori pedagogy, reflective learning methods and emotional development.
Shalini believes schools should act as enablers rather than simply instructors, nurturing each child’s individuality and confidence.
Legacy
Through her preschool and trust, Shalini Giridharan has influenced early childhood education practices in her region. She is regarded as a voice for meaningful pedagogy that respects children’s emotional worlds and independence.
The Magic Academy Education Trust continues to grow as a model of transformative learning in India.