If you don’t already know, the Montessori Method was created by an Italian physician, Maria Montessori. Through medical observation and her work with kids, she came up with a method that teaches children how to become fully-developed young people. In short, a Montessori environment encourages kids to learn about the world through their senses. The goal is not to teach facts, but to teach how to love learning. Many best private schools use this method, so why not use it at home with your kids? Here’s how you can use Montessori at home.
Organize your space
A Montessori home has a place for everything and everything is in its place. When you have a designated space for everything, your kid will very quickly learn about all the items in your home. This is the best way to teach them responsibility for their belongings, cleaning their messes and solving their problems. In order to organize your place well, you need to make it accessible for kids. For instance, store clothing in low drawers and baskets, place step stools in kitchens and bathrooms, place toys, books and art supplies on low shelves and designate low shelves in your pantry and fridge for some healthy snacks. Every Primary Montessori focuses on encouraging children’s sense of responsibility and belonging. No matter how old they are, it is never too late or early to start.
Keep the environment fresh
If you want to organize your home and your kids’ rooms according to the Montessori method, make sure to keep the environment fresh. One of the best things you can do is rotate your kids’ toys, books and art supplies every few weeks to prevent boredom and spark curiosity. This might seem tiring, but you can just rotate things on the shelves and include their current interests on their shelves and rooms. If your kid is into music, you can grab some age-appropriate instruments or if they like building toys, buy some blocks and Legos. There are excellent age-appropriate toys and toy reviews at Funtastic Toy so you can pick out just the right items your kid will love. No matter what your kid is into, these toys will spark their interests and encourage them to pursue their dreams.
Keep art on eye level
No matter if you have prints of people, framed family photos, kids’ drawings and any other type of art on your walls, make sure to expose them to the beauty of art by keeping it accessible. It’s a great way to stimulate their mind.
Encourage school kids
While most parents only employ the Montessori Method while their kids are younger, school kids can also benefit from this method. When designing your school kid’s room, pay special attention to the items you place on shelves. You want to surround them with items that fit your kid’s interest and personality. If you have a kid that shows interest in art, fill their shelves with art supplies, paper, books and other art. If you have a little adventurer and traveler at home, construct nature trays and grab some books about the flora and fauna in your region.
Focus on inner motivation
The Montessori method is not only about design – it’s also about how you act towards your kids and how you motivate them with words and your actions. Verbal praise is allowed, but it should be given in moderation. You want your kid to find inner motivation and enjoy the feelings of pride and pleasure that comes with learning.
Practice positive language
Positive discipline should be the only way to discipline your child. Try to use CANs instead of CAN’Ts when talking to your child. Let’s say your kid wants to climb the shelf in their room. Don’t say “You can’t climb this!” but use “Let’s climb the play structure outside”. If your child wants a treat before dinner, avoid saying “No, you can’t have it” but use “You can have it after dinner”. There are so many great positive reinforcement tips out there that will create the right associations in your kids’ minds.
A pleasant Montessori environment will allow your kid to grow up into a motivated, inspired and curious young adult. This is one of the biggest gifts you can give them!
