Are you looking for Montessori-style activities for your six to twelve-month-old? One of the fundamentals of Montessori for this age is freedom of movement. So what you don't see here is just as important as what do you do see. To support freedom of movement we don't use baby walkers, baby jumpers, or baby swings. We don't prop the child up in a seated position. We allow the child to play on their movement area (playmat) with just a few toys and allow for natural development as much as possible. With these activities I've included the age of the child... Read more →

There is no substitute for good Montessori materials, however, let's not be too precious about it, most of us have mainstream toys in our homes too. Today I am sharing some of the mainstream baby toys we have and are currently using. All of these have been carefully selected, but from Amazon or from other popular online toy retailers. They don't take the place of Montessori infant materials but each has a specific purpose, each brings something to the child. Most of these are suitable for 3-6 months+. Plan Toys, Grimm's and Brio are some of our favourite mainstream toy... Read more →

In the past I've made my own bibs and Montessori placemats but this time I've picked up a Montessori weaning set. I thought I would share with you what is in it and how we are using it! First, pictured above is our little snack or food preparation station. When Otto is walking I envisage him collecting his own bowl, spoon and things and set up his table for snack or lunch. We are using; a small glass pitcher, weaning glasses, small glass bowls, baby/toddler cutlery and cleanup towels. We use all glass as it's easier for the child to... Read more →

Perhaps it's because they are so small, perhaps it's because they don't say much, babies especially those with older siblings can be constantly on the move or rushed or shushed. I'm a busy parent, I live in the real world but I could do with a reminder. Perhaps you could do with a reminder too. From some of my Montessori readings, here a few ways we can respect the baby. We can respect: Individual developmental needs - don't rush, push or force. Observe and follow the child's lead, provide an environment that is developmentally appropriate. Need for sleep, rest and... Read more →

It's now Spring, although it still feels like Winter and we have a tendency to want to rug our babies up and keep them inside. At six months the baby is grabbing and pulling and putting things in their mouths, we are constantly saying no and keeping them away from everything precious. But at six months the child is capable and interested and has an innate desire to explore. Today we spent some time in the garden, just watching the birds and squirrels play around us. The change from Winter to Spring is magical, last weekend these Daffodils were covered... Read more →

I remember when Otis was four, there was a young boy in his class learning long division. Wow, just wow! Every time I saw the boy I tried to take a peek over his shoulder to see what he was working on. The accomplishments of this young boy should be celebrated, just as the accomplishments of the other children in the class. His achievements do not lessen the achievements of the other children. It doesn't always work like that though does it? I remember being a first-time parent going to our Mother's Group. All of the other babies sat, waved,... Read more →

This is my second post in a monthly series on children's clothing. Clothing that we love, clothing that is fun, practical and true to our Montessori values! Clothing is so important for children and more so for infants. Otto (six months) spends most of his day on the floor on a movement mat or on a play mat at friends or curled up in his brothers' arms. Having soft, comfortable clothing that keeps him warm and allows him to move is a priority. Previously Otto was wearing soft woolen booties when we went out visiting or at home, just for... Read more →

Today I'm sharing some of the books we've been enjoying recently! Otto - six months When I search for Montessori baby books, the same titles keep on coming up. It could be because these are the tried and true and it could be because we aren't reviewing new baby books. Books like Priddy's First 100 Words will never go out of fashion in Montessori homes - the clear realistic images on plain backgrounds, of every day objects, is just perfect. The whole Priddy series is fantastic. Another series that I love for babies is the DK Baby Touch and Feel... Read more →