If you are interested in how the Montessori method works or you currently have your child enrolled in a Montessori preschool, setting up a Montessori inspired playroom at home can reinforce these principles. Before making any major changes, take time to consider where in your home is the right space for Montessori play. A quiet, well-lit room or corner is an ideal place to create a space to practice Montessori ideals.

Creating a Montessori environment

There are some guiding principles to the Montessori method that you will want to consider as you begin designing the space. A few things to keep in mind when setting up your child’s playroom include:

• Child-Centric Design: Arrange the playroom with the child's perspective in mind. Place items at child's eye level, making them easily accessible.

• Minimalist Approach: Declutter the room and remove unnecessary toys and distractions. Montessori emphasizes simplicity, so keep only a few high-quality toys and materials.

• Use Open Shelves: Invest in open shelves or low cabinets that allow your child to see and access toys and materials easily. Baskets and trays can help organize items.

• Child-Sized Furniture: Use child-sized furniture to promote independence. A small table and chairs, a low bed or crib, and a child-sized sink for handwashing are examples.

• Include Nature: Incorporate elements of nature into the room, such as plants, natural light, and natural textures. Nature is an important part of Montessori philosophy.

What learning materials you need

While it is important not to overwhelm your child with the number of things to play with, you still want to have a few well thought out items to give your child choice. A few things to consider when choosing items for your Montessori playroom are:

• The type of material to include: Montessori-approved materials like wooden puzzles, blocks, sensory materials like sandpaper letters, sensory bottles, and practical life activities like pouring water and sorting

• Rotate Toys: To maintain your child's interest and prevent overwhelming them with clutter, rotate toys and materials every few weeks. This keeps the environment fresh and engaging.

• Art and Creativity: Dedicate an area for art and creative activities with child-sized tables and chairs. Provide art supplies like crayons, colored pencils, paper, and clay.

• Natural and Sustainable Materials: Choose toys and materials made from natural and sustainable materials like wood, fabric, and metal. Avoid plastic and battery-operated toys.

How to encourage your child while they play

While the environment and materials are very important in a Montessori inspired space, the method should still be gently instilled in your child as well. A few things to encourage your child in the Montessori way are to teach your child how to keep the playroom organized and tidy as well as to develop their independence. Both skills can be achieved by labeling shelves and bins with words or pictures to help with clean-up routines and by encouraging your child to choose activities and materials independently. You can reinforce these skills by respecting their choices and allowing them to work at their own pace.

If you are looking for a Montessori program in your area, give Fountainhead Montessori School a call today.