The Montessori Method explained
The Montessori Method is an approach to education developed by Maria Montessori over a hundred years ago.
Recent years have seen its popularity grow as more and more people learn about the benefits it provides for children.
At its core, the Montessori Method is all about helping children learn how to become independent and capable.
This is done by allowing them to contribute to the family and giving them opportunities to learn skills that can help them as adults.
In addition, the Montessori Method focuses on providing a child-centered environment that allows for their autonomy and growth.
One of the critical aspects of the Montessori Method is allowing a child to contribute to the family. This helps develop their independence and capability skills, which are essential building blocks for success.
When a child feels like they are part of something larger than themselves, it empowers them and gives them a sense of control over their world.
The Montessori Method is all about helping children learn how to become self-sufficient individuals. It allows them freedom and independence while providing observation so we can understand how they learn best.
This way, we can help each child grow into an autonomous adult capable of anything!
1. What is a Montessori self-care station?
A Montessori self-care station is a space that has been furnished so kids can complete daily tasks independently.
The key to success with Montessori at Home is involving children with practical activities early on, so they can form a foundation for learning and growing at their own pace.
For self-care stations, or any practical life activity, all of the materials should be done with child-sized instruments & accessible to them (so in reach), so they can succeed without much assistance.
A Montessori self-care station is a space that could involve brushing teeth, washing hands, or hair care.
The key to success with Montessori at Home is involving children with practical activities early on, so they can form a foundation for learning and growing at their own pace.
There are many benefits from letting children explore in a self-directed way, including sensory exploration and increased independence.
You can find some examples of Montessori self-care stations here or here.
2. Preparing the environment is the first step in setting up a Montessori self-care station.
Before setting up a Montessori self-care station, it’s crucial to prepare the environment.
This means making sure all of the materials are child-sized and accessible.
Choosing materials that will encourage independence and build self-confidence is also important.
It is crucial to emphasize sensory exploration when working with children in a Montessori environment.
For this reason, a Montessori self–care station is so important.
Creating independence in everyday tasks is key to seeing these Montessori benefits
1. Decide where you want to set it up
There are only a few options here, from my point of view:
- in the bathroom: this is the first place that comes to my mind, so your toddler would see you using your toothbrush or washing your hands, and therefore you would be a good example.
- in your toddler’s room. If you’ve got a tight bathroom, another option is to install it in their room.
However, for obvious reasons (mopping up water), I’d instead go with installing it in the bathroom.
2. Decide the most basic self-care items you would provide
The materials you need to create a Montessori self-care station depend on your child’s age. For toddlers, you will need:
- A hairbrush and comb
- A toothbrush and toothpaste
- A mirror at eye level
- A stool to reach the sink, if necessary
Make sure the station is accessible for your child to use independently and teach her how to clean up the station regularly and restock any supplies as needed.
With these tips in mind, you can create a Montessori self-care station for your toddler that will make independent hygiene a breeze!
Initially, your child will not be expected to be able to use all these items independently. Each skill will require your assistance until they have mastered it.
3. Expectations for self-care
When it comes to self-care, toddlers will start by needing some guidance from their parents.
Parents should invite their children to participate in caring for themselves when possible.
These tasks shall begin as choices or collaborations and grow into tasks they can complete independently.
One way we can help our toddler is by providing a level of tolerance for their unique way of matching clothing or styling their hair.
This may require a little extra time in the morning, but it’s worth it!
For example, if your child insists on wearing mismatched socks, rather than fight it, just go with the flow and put them in different shoes.
A mirror at his height and a shelf for his hairbrush situated next to his wardrobe can help a child begin to get ready to leave the house–with a little bit of parental guidance along the way!
4. Young Children Thrive With Montessori At Home
If you’re looking for an alternative way to raise your children, Montessori at home may be the answer. This approach features children that act like mini-adults.
Starting early and letting the child see you do the chores around the house are the keys to success. This way, they can learn how to do things themselves with your guidance.
One of the most important aspects of Montessori at Home is getting children involved in the day-to-day routine.
In Montessori learning, practical life activities provide a rich platform for children to thrive.
The activities include setting up a space where your child can complete certain daily routines independently, such as washing hands, brushing their teeth, grooming themselves, and dressing themselves.
Creating independence in everyday tasks is key to seeing these Montessori benefits in your toddler.
All of the materials should be done with child-sized instruments & accessible to them (so within reach) so they are able to succeed without much assistance.
5. What are the benefits of having a Montessori self-care station?
There are many benefits to having a Montessori self-care station in your home.
For one, it allows your child to practice independence and self-care. This is an essential skill that they will need as they grow older.
In addition, a self-care station provides children with a sense of accomplishment and confidence. They feel proud of themselves when they can take care of themselves independently.
A Montessori self-care station is also great for sensory exploration. Children love to explore their environment through touch, smell, taste, and sight. This type of exploration helps them learn about the world around them. Plus, it’s just plain fun!
Lastly, a self-care station has a purpose that helps to motivate parents to create it. Knowing that their child will benefit from it is often all parents need to get started on this project!
The Montessori benefits come from engaging children through various activities that prioritize sensory exploration rather than being directed by adults.
What do you need to create a Montessori self-care station?
You will need a few essential items when setting up a Montessori self-care station.
These include a hairbrush and comb, toothbrush and toothpaste, mirror, stool, and sink.
At first, your child may not be able to use all these items without assistance. However, with practice, this can become part of their everyday routine.
A critical item for your self-care station is a sink. This allows the child to complete their daily routine without assistance. This will give your child independence in completing their tasks.
Another essential item is a mirror. Toddlers need to be able to see themselves while brushing their teeth or styling their hair so they can complete these tasks independently. You can find mirrors at Ikea that are perfect for this purpose.
If you decide not to purchase/build a child-sized self-care station, finding a suitable stool for your child’s height and size is the final piece of the puzzle.
This will allow them to reach everything they need to complete their self-care tasks without having to stand on tiptoe.
You can find a 2-step stool with a broad base or an Ikea side table with an acrylic mirror that will work perfectly for your needs.
6. What activities can be included in a Montessori self-care station?
A Montessori self-care station can include a variety of activities that help children learn and practice their daily activities.
Many of these activities are designed to help children stay up-to-date on what they need to do. In contrast, others simply provide a fun way for kids to learn about themselves and their bodies.
One great way to keep kids informed about their day-to-day is by including printable activity sheets in your Montessori self-care station. These printables can cover anything from brushing teeth correctly to washing hands properly.
Plus, they’re perfect for keeping kids entertained and engaged!
Here are some examples of the many different activities that can be included in a Montessori self-care station:
- brushing teeth
- washing hands
- drying hands
- putting on lotion or sunscreen
- combing hair
- cutting nails
All of these activities can help children learn about taking care of themselves.
One of the best things about a Montessori self-care station is that it can constantly be changing.
As your child grows and changes, so can the contents of their self-care station. Be sure to check back often for new ideas and printables!
7. Practical life is all about embracing change and learning from experiences!
Change is a natural part of life, and it’s something that we all have to learn to deal with.
For toddlers, this can be difficult as they are still learning about the world around them.
Practical life activities help them embrace change and learn from their experiences.
One of the best things about practical life activities is that they are constantly changing! This means that your child will never get bored, and they will continuously be learning new things.
Whether you’re switching up the order of tasks or adding new ones, there’s always something new to explore.
Practical life helps children learn how to cope with change, an essential skill to develop. It also teaches them how to handle new situations and problem-solve when things don’t go according to plan.
With these skills in hand, your child will be ready for anything!
Here are some more blog posts on other Montessori furniture:
Montessori Mirror: A Tool for Self-Exploration and Learning
The [Complete] Montessori Wardrobe Guide: How to Choose, Set Up, and Use
Adorable and Spacious Children’s Wardrobe Closet Collection
Essential Montessori Furniture pieces for your Home
The Montessori Learning Tower: The Ultimate Guide To Buying A Learning Tower
Conclusion
So, to recap, a self-care station is vital for your toddler’s physical well-being.
It will help him/her learn how to use safe and healthy behaviors and routines.
As your child becomes more coordinated and with appropriate support, he/she can achieve strong outcomes in their perceptual, motor, and physical development.