Want to learn how to prepare a Montessori style environment at home?
Maybe your toddler is enrolled in a Montessori school, or maybe you’re simply interested in making your living space more Montessori-friendly. Either way, you’re in the right place!
Here, we’ll discuss some of the basics to help you set up your home for a Montessori toddler. Keep reading to learn more…
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How to prepare your home for a Montessori toddler
Toddlers are curious little explorers. In their quest to learn more about the world around them, they often push boundaries, get into things they shouldn’t, and make a mess. Keeping up with your little one can make for a challenging time if you’re not ready for it!
Looking for ideas to help you set up your home in a safe and organized — but still fun to explore — way? Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for a Montessori toddler to encourage learning and boost independence.
1 | Create a safe-to-explore living space
Think about the areas in your home that your child has regular access to. Do they allow for safe exploration?
Remove any small objects that could be swallowed, and tuck away breakable objects where they can’t be reached. Secure outlets and cords as needed, and anchor heavy furniture to the wall to prevent injury.
It’s also a good idea to create a designated “yes space” in your home that’s been carefully child-proofed so your toddler can play independently.
2 | Reduce clutter
While your toddler might seem like a walking mess machine some days, it’s good to remember that tidy spaces help toddlers thrive. Clutter can easily overwhelm your child, making it harder for them to learn, focus, and make decisions.
Take steps to donate or toss any belongings that have overstayed their welcome, including old toys, books, and clothing. Eliminate visual clutter too. Don’t be afraid of negative space — it helps visually balance a space and promotes relaxation.
3 | Make it engaging
Toddlers learn by exploring their surroundings, so take care to fill your space with interesting objects. There’s no one right way to do this!
Think about feeding your child’s senses…
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- Visual: Hang simple art prints at your child’s eye level. Use a variety of colors and textures to decorate. Add interesting things to look at like plants and family photos.
- Auditory: Provide maracas and other musical instruments to explore, or pots and pans to bang. Take time to listen to different kinds of music and nature sounds.
- Tactile: Offer objects that are interesting to touch like silky scarves, smooth stones, and spiky sensory balls. Simple fine motor toys (like magnets) and large motor toys (like climbers) provide an engaging tactile experience too.
You Might Also Like: 21 Easy Montessori Sensory Activities for Toddlers
4 | Create easy-to-use organization systems
It seems obvious, but it’s worth stating: Your child should know where their belongings are stored. So choose a designated spot for your child’s toys, books, clothing, and other items — and stay consistent.
Low, open toy shelves and accessible book storage systems, like floor baskets and floating shelves, are great options for toddlers. For clothing storage, try a child-friendly wardrobe. The simpler, the better! The goal is to set up organization systems that you and your little one can keep up with.
5 | Enrich your space with plants & art
It’s no secret that plants and art add personality to a home. They can also help you create a sense of peace and balance in your living space — a welcome addition to any home with a busy toddler!
To get started, look for non-toxic plants your toddler can help care for. You can also hang artwork at your child’s eye level in their bedroom or play area. Keep in mind that little ones are often drawn to vibrant art prints, realistic images of wildlife and landscapes, and photos of loved ones. 🥰
6 | Choose child-sized furniture
One of the most important qualities of a Montessori home is accessibility. Easy-to-use spaces help children explore and learn, build self-help skills, and gain confidence. Think about steps you can take to make your home more functional for your child.
A small table is a great option for meals and playtime. A low floor bed makes it easy for your little one to climb into bed at night and get up in the morning without help. A bench near the front door is a good spot to sit while your child puts on their shoes.
Stools and kitchen towers help build independence too!
7 | Be thoughtful when selecting materials
Provide age-appropriate but challenging learning materials. You want to aim for the sweet spot where your child is being pushed to learn and grow, without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged.
Need help getting started? Check out the right guide for your child’s age group (below) to find Montessori-friendly activity ideas and toy suggestions for your little one…
Making the change
Preparing the home environment for your toddler is an important part of practicing Montessori at home. But it doesn’t have to be hard!
Don’t be afraid to take small steps toward setting up an accessible space, implementing simple organization systems, and choosing engaging learning materials for your little one. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. 😊
By following these tips, you can start turning your living space into a supportive, Montessori-friendly environment that will continue to benefit your toddler as they grow.
Want to learn more?
For more info on setting up Montessori spaces at home, check out my self-paced online course: Design a Montessori Bedroom Your Toddler Will Love — hope to see you there!
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