Montessori in the Home

Many parents come into the Montessori environment, see the order and serenity, and wonder how this happens.  The mats are wiped and put away, the floors and food tables are clean, the dozens of activities are organized in their places on the shelves.  What makes the magic happen, and how can you tap into it?

The key is organization, logic, and accessibility.  In a Montessori classroom everything is at the child's level, and organized left to right, top to bottom and simple to complex. There is a formula, and at the root is trust in the child's ability to use the tools he or she is given. You can create this environment in your home with a little creativity  and thought.

Sit down on the floor, and imagine life at your child's level.  What is accessible? Are there hooks at eye level to hang jackets or other clothing? Is there a table and chair/ work area, in each room that is sized for small people's comfort?  What about food - Can your child get a snack or drink without depending on grown up benevolence?  Where is the bed, can your child get in and out with ease?  Are toys and games laid out in an organized fashion on shelving, or are they thrown in a toy box?

A place for everything and everything in it's place is the key. Clothing in small child sized drawers, toys organized in bins by category; (building/vehicles/art) easy to manage bed covers to make bed making simple, and limiting choices to a few of each item works wonders. Healthy foods can be on the bottom shelf of the fridge, like a few cut up carrots or apples, and a small pitcher holding one small glass of juice or milk to help with independence.  A clean up pail and sponge in the corner, with a child size dustpan and brush encourage handling accidents.

If you encourage independence and responsibility, and curb the impulse to do things for your child just because it's more expedient, your efforts will pay off handsomely.  You will show your child respect and receive the same in return.  There are many references for parents who want a Montessori home, including How to Raise An Amazing Child  the Montessori Way by Tim Seldon. Check them out and go for it!

“He who is served is limited in his independence.”  Maria Montessori