Montessori
Montessori for Toddlers: A Practical Home Guide
Montessori for Toddlers: A Practical Home Guide
A gentle guide to raising toddlers with Montessori: independence, curiosity, and connection through everyday life at home.
A gentle guide to raising toddlers with Montessori: independence, curiosity, and connection through everyday life at home.
Challenge
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Results
Comparative Analysis
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Category
Category
Montessori
Montessori
Date
Date
Apr 8, 2025
Apr 8, 2025
Time to read
Time to read
28 Minutes
28 Minutes
Tags
Tags
Montessori toddler, prepared environment, independence, Montessori home
Montessori toddler, prepared environment, independence, Montessori home
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlerhood often gets a bad reputation. Ask any parent of a two-year-old, and you might hear stories involving crumbled snacks, loud protests over the wrong color cup, and a daily mess that appears to regenerate overnight.
It’s noisy. It’s intense. And, yes, it can feel like a lot.
You might be wondering: Is it supposed to be this hard?
Or maybe: Why does my toddler lose it over socks?
And most of all: Am I doing something wrong?
Toddlers aren’t trying to test limits for fun. They’re trying to figure things out. Their bodies move faster than their words, their emotions are big, and their brains are working overtime to make sense of everything around them. What looks like defiance is often curiosity. What feels like chaos is actually learning in motion.
Simone Davies, author of The Montessori Toddler, invites us to see this phase in a new light. According to Davies, toddlers aren’t tiny tyrants. They’re simply humans with fewer tools to express what they need. And once we start paying attention to what they’re really communicating, things begin to shift.
This blog post takes inspiration from her book and brings you a different way to think about toddlerhood, not as a problem to fix, but as a stage to support.
More than a hundred years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori, a physician and educator, began observing young children with incredible care. What she noticed was simple but profound: children learn best when they feel respected, involved, and free to follow their natural interests. From those observations, an entire educational approach grew.
Montessori focuses on the child’s rhythm. It’s less about directing and more about preparing spaces and routines that encourage independence and confidence. Toddlers are capable of more than we often assume. They just need the right kind of support.
Some of the key principles include creating an environment that invites exploration, offering hands-on experiences, recognizing sensitive windows for certain types of learning, and observing quietly before stepping in. It’s about slowing down and trusting the process, even when it’s messy.
If you’re curious how that looks in everyday life, you’re in the right place.
Simone Davies takes these ideas and translates them into practical tips that feel realistic for busy families. You don’t need to change your entire home or buy specialized materials. What matters most is how you see your child and how small shifts in your responses can make a big difference.
Whether your toddler attends a Montessori program or not, the ideas in this post will give you a fresh lens to view this age with more calm, more connection, and fewer battles.
Toddlerhood often gets a bad reputation. Ask any parent of a two-year-old, and you might hear stories involving crumbled snacks, loud protests over the wrong color cup, and a daily mess that appears to regenerate overnight.
It’s noisy. It’s intense. And, yes, it can feel like a lot.
You might be wondering: Is it supposed to be this hard?
Or maybe: Why does my toddler lose it over socks?
And most of all: Am I doing something wrong?
Toddlers aren’t trying to test limits for fun. They’re trying to figure things out. Their bodies move faster than their words, their emotions are big, and their brains are working overtime to make sense of everything around them. What looks like defiance is often curiosity. What feels like chaos is actually learning in motion.
Simone Davies, author of The Montessori Toddler, invites us to see this phase in a new light. According to Davies, toddlers aren’t tiny tyrants. They’re simply humans with fewer tools to express what they need. And once we start paying attention to what they’re really communicating, things begin to shift.
This blog post takes inspiration from her book and brings you a different way to think about toddlerhood, not as a problem to fix, but as a stage to support.
More than a hundred years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori, a physician and educator, began observing young children with incredible care. What she noticed was simple but profound: children learn best when they feel respected, involved, and free to follow their natural interests. From those observations, an entire educational approach grew.
Montessori focuses on the child’s rhythm. It’s less about directing and more about preparing spaces and routines that encourage independence and confidence. Toddlers are capable of more than we often assume. They just need the right kind of support.
Some of the key principles include creating an environment that invites exploration, offering hands-on experiences, recognizing sensitive windows for certain types of learning, and observing quietly before stepping in. It’s about slowing down and trusting the process, even when it’s messy.
If you’re curious how that looks in everyday life, you’re in the right place.
Simone Davies takes these ideas and translates them into practical tips that feel realistic for busy families. You don’t need to change your entire home or buy specialized materials. What matters most is how you see your child and how small shifts in your responses can make a big difference.
Whether your toddler attends a Montessori program or not, the ideas in this post will give you a fresh lens to view this age with more calm, more connection, and fewer battles.
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
It’s easy to think Montessori began as a classroom method. But its roots are deeper and more human than that.
Dr. Maria Montessori was one of Italy’s first female physicians in the late 1800s. Her work didn’t begin in fancy schools or elite circles. She started in the clinics of Rome, working with families in poverty, helping children who were often ignored or dismissed. Many had been placed in institutions, labeled as unteachable. What she saw, however, wasn’t inability. It was deprivation. These children weren’t broken. They were bored, under-stimulated, and in need of meaningful engagement.
She didn’t begin with theories or formulas. She watched. She noticed what caught the children’s attention, what calmed them, and what made them focus. Her background in medicine shaped her approach: observe first, intervene thoughtfully, and always ask what the child is trying to do.
Eventually, these children, who had once been written off, outperformed their peers on state exams. People called it a miracle. Montessori saw it differently. For her, it was proof of what children can do when we meet them where they are.
In 1907, she was asked to open a program for young children in a poor neighborhood in Rome. This was the first Casa dei Bambini, or “House of Children.” It wasn’t long before her approach gained international attention. Today, Montessori classrooms exist in almost every corner of the world. But more importantly, her ideas continue to influence how we see children and how we support them at home.
Some very well-known adults attended Montessori schools in their early years, including the founders of Google, the founder of Amazon, a U.S. First Lady, and a Nobel Prize-winning author. But Montessori isn’t about producing geniuses. It’s about helping each child become fully themselves.
So what makes Montessori so different from traditional education?
In many conventional classrooms, the adult stands at the front, deciding what the children need to know and when. There’s often one schedule, one lesson, one pace for everyone. Montessori shifts this dynamic. Instead of pouring information in, it helps draw curiosity out.
Children are invited to lead their own learning, supported by the adult and an environment built for discovery. Materials are laid out in order, from simple to more complex, and children explore them at their own rhythm. The adult watches closely, quietly, and offers new lessons when the time feels right.
Dr. Montessori believed learning isn't about filling a child with facts. It’s about helping them build the skills and confidence to seek out knowledge on their own. These ideas don’t just apply in classrooms. They can completely change how we support toddlers at home.
Let’s take a closer look at the core principles that are especially helpful during the toddler years:
The Prepared Environment
This is about setting up your home in a way that makes it easier for your toddler to participate, explore, and do things for themselves. Think low shelves, simple materials, and spaces that invite calm and curiosity. You don’t have to redesign every room. Just having one small area in each part of the house that your child can access independently makes a huge difference. Clear organization helps too. When everything has its place, toddlers feel more secure, and you might spend less time picking up scattered toys.
The Absorbent Mind
From birth to age six, children soak up information without even trying. In the toddler years, this process happens mostly unconsciously. They watch, listen, mimic, and internalize what they see and hear. This is why your tone, your actions, and your presence matter so much. They’re learning language, behavior, social rules, even a sense of beauty from you and the environment around them.
Sensitive Periods
Toddlers often go through intense phases where they’re focused on one thing. Maybe they suddenly care deeply about putting things in order. Or they repeat the same movement over and over again. These aren’t random obsessions. They’re windows of opportunity. Recognizing them means you can offer materials or experiences that match what your child is drawn to at that moment. It’s not about pushing skills early. It’s about noticing and responding.
Freedom and Limits
Montessori isn’t about letting children do whatever they want, nor is it about strict control. It’s about finding a respectful balance. Within clear, consistent boundaries, toddlers are free to make choices, explore, and follow their interests. Limits exist for safety, respect, and harmony, but they’re offered with kindness. Clear actions speak louder than endless explanations. And consistency builds trust.
Hands-on Learning
Toddlers learn by doing. Touching, lifting, pouring, scrubbing, stirring. These aren’t distractions from learning. They are learning. Their hands connect them to the world. Practical life activities like setting the table or watering plants aren’t chores. They’re meaningful work that builds coordination, focus, and confidence.
Order
Toddlers thrive on routine and consistency. They like things to be where they expect them, and they feel calmer when the day follows a familiar rhythm. This love of order isn’t about being rigid. It’s about helping them make sense of their surroundings. Predictability gives them a sense of control, which helps reduce frustration and big emotions.
Observation
This might be the most important skill of all. Slowing down enough to simply watch your child, not to judge or correct, but to really see what they’re trying to figure out, can change everything. You’ll start to notice patterns. You’ll begin to anticipate their needs before things escalate. And you’ll build a deeper connection because you’re responding to who your child actually is, not who you assumed they would be.
These principles aren’t a script. They’re more like a lens. Once you start seeing your toddler through this lens, you realize they’re not acting out. They’re acting with purpose. They’re not trying to make life harder. They’re trying to grow.
And with the right kind of support, they can.
The Prepared Adult
When we think about Montessori, our minds often go straight to the child. Their natural curiosity. Their drive to learn. The beautifully arranged spaces and quiet concentration. But there’s one essential piece that sometimes gets less attention, even though it holds everything else together.
That piece is the adult.
Dr. Montessori believed that the adult is not just a helper or supervisor. The adult is a guide. A steady, thoughtful presence. And in order to truly support a child, we need to prepare ourselves just as carefully as we prepare the environment.
The Importance of Self-Preparation
Being a prepared adult doesn’t mean getting everything right. It doesn’t mean following every parenting book to the letter. What it really means is being aware of ourselves. How we respond when things get messy. What happens inside us when we feel frustrated or rushed. What patterns we bring from our own childhood.
This kind of reflection is quiet and personal. It helps us show up with more calm and clarity. Simone Davies often says that Montessori is not just about what we do, but about how we are with children. That includes being curious, open, and connected, even in the hard moments.
Caring for Your Physical Well-being
Your body needs care too. Parenting toddlers is physically demanding. There’s a lot of lifting, bending, chasing, and cleaning. It helps to rest when you can. To eat in a way that keeps your energy up. To move your body in ways that feel good. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Small, simple habits make a difference.
When you take care of yourself, you respond with more patience. You’re better able to stay calm when your child melts down over the green cup instead of the blue one. And you're less likely to snap when they insist on doing something the hardest possible way.
Staying Open to Learning
No one has all the answers. Not even Montessori teachers. What makes a prepared adult is the willingness to keep learning. That means observing your child closely and noticing what works and what doesn’t. It means being flexible. Letting go of what’s not serving your child and trying something new.
It might mean reading books, listening to a podcast, or even learning something completely unrelated to parenting just because it brings you joy. That joy, that curiosity, is something your child will pick up on too.
Practicing Presence and Observation
Toddlers live fully in the moment. They notice everything. The light on the wall, the sound of the washing machine, the feel of a spoon in their hand. When we slow down and watch them with the same care, we start to see more.
Observation in Montessori means watching like a camera. Just noticing. No judgment. No need to analyze. Just paying attention to what your child is doing, what they are trying to master, and how they move through their space.
This helps us respond more thoughtfully. It tells us when to step in with help and when to step back. It helps us build a home that truly supports our child, because we’re tuning into what they actually need, not just what we assume they need.
Filling Your Emotional Bucket
Toddlers have big emotions. So do adults. If you’re always putting yourself last, those feelings will eventually show up as tension, burnout, or frustration.
Make space for your own emotions. Notice what helps you feel steady. That might be time alone. A moment of quiet. A walk, a bath, or a short conversation with someone who gets it.
Simone Davies compares toddlers to full glasses. They are doing their best. But so are you. You deserve care too.
Slowing Down to Match Their Rhythm
Toddlers move slowly and with purpose. They might stop to look at a bug or insist on zipping their jacket themselves. These moments often test our patience, especially when we’re running late or feeling stretched.
But Montessori invites us to embrace what Carl Honoré calls the "tempo giusto" — the right pace. Sometimes that means moving quickly. Other times it means slowing down. Taking a breath. Giving your child space to finish what they’re working on before rushing to the next thing.
Unless your child is in immediate danger, pausing before reacting can help everyone feel more grounded.
Guiding with Confidence and Trust
You are not your child’s boss. You are not their servant either. You are their guide.
This means preparing the environment so they can act with independence. It means giving them real choices and meaningful tasks. It also means stepping in with support when they need it, then stepping back to let them try again.
Being a guide means trusting your child’s natural desire to learn. It means knowing that your job is not to control every move, but to create the conditions where learning and growth can unfold.
Using Your Home as a Helper
A well-prepared home supports both the child and the adult. When things are within reach, when there’s a place for everything, when the environment encourages independence, your child can do more on their own.
This also means fewer interruptions for you. Less chasing down lost shoes. Less resistance at mealtimes. Less frustration around transitions.
The principles we explored earlier — child-sized furniture, clear organization, and beauty in simplicity — help the whole family. They reduce stress and bring more flow to the day.
As Simone Davies reminds us, preparing the home is not just for the child. It also makes life easier for the adult.
Being a prepared adult is not about having all the answers or following every rule. It’s about becoming more present, more reflective, and more open. It’s about caring for yourself so you can care for your child. And it’s about building a home life that feels calmer, more connected, and more joyful.
You are not just raising a child. You are growing too.
It’s easy to think Montessori began as a classroom method. But its roots are deeper and more human than that.
Dr. Maria Montessori was one of Italy’s first female physicians in the late 1800s. Her work didn’t begin in fancy schools or elite circles. She started in the clinics of Rome, working with families in poverty, helping children who were often ignored or dismissed. Many had been placed in institutions, labeled as unteachable. What she saw, however, wasn’t inability. It was deprivation. These children weren’t broken. They were bored, under-stimulated, and in need of meaningful engagement.
She didn’t begin with theories or formulas. She watched. She noticed what caught the children’s attention, what calmed them, and what made them focus. Her background in medicine shaped her approach: observe first, intervene thoughtfully, and always ask what the child is trying to do.
Eventually, these children, who had once been written off, outperformed their peers on state exams. People called it a miracle. Montessori saw it differently. For her, it was proof of what children can do when we meet them where they are.
In 1907, she was asked to open a program for young children in a poor neighborhood in Rome. This was the first Casa dei Bambini, or “House of Children.” It wasn’t long before her approach gained international attention. Today, Montessori classrooms exist in almost every corner of the world. But more importantly, her ideas continue to influence how we see children and how we support them at home.
Some very well-known adults attended Montessori schools in their early years, including the founders of Google, the founder of Amazon, a U.S. First Lady, and a Nobel Prize-winning author. But Montessori isn’t about producing geniuses. It’s about helping each child become fully themselves.
So what makes Montessori so different from traditional education?
In many conventional classrooms, the adult stands at the front, deciding what the children need to know and when. There’s often one schedule, one lesson, one pace for everyone. Montessori shifts this dynamic. Instead of pouring information in, it helps draw curiosity out.
Children are invited to lead their own learning, supported by the adult and an environment built for discovery. Materials are laid out in order, from simple to more complex, and children explore them at their own rhythm. The adult watches closely, quietly, and offers new lessons when the time feels right.
Dr. Montessori believed learning isn't about filling a child with facts. It’s about helping them build the skills and confidence to seek out knowledge on their own. These ideas don’t just apply in classrooms. They can completely change how we support toddlers at home.
Let’s take a closer look at the core principles that are especially helpful during the toddler years:
The Prepared Environment
This is about setting up your home in a way that makes it easier for your toddler to participate, explore, and do things for themselves. Think low shelves, simple materials, and spaces that invite calm and curiosity. You don’t have to redesign every room. Just having one small area in each part of the house that your child can access independently makes a huge difference. Clear organization helps too. When everything has its place, toddlers feel more secure, and you might spend less time picking up scattered toys.
The Absorbent Mind
From birth to age six, children soak up information without even trying. In the toddler years, this process happens mostly unconsciously. They watch, listen, mimic, and internalize what they see and hear. This is why your tone, your actions, and your presence matter so much. They’re learning language, behavior, social rules, even a sense of beauty from you and the environment around them.
Sensitive Periods
Toddlers often go through intense phases where they’re focused on one thing. Maybe they suddenly care deeply about putting things in order. Or they repeat the same movement over and over again. These aren’t random obsessions. They’re windows of opportunity. Recognizing them means you can offer materials or experiences that match what your child is drawn to at that moment. It’s not about pushing skills early. It’s about noticing and responding.
Freedom and Limits
Montessori isn’t about letting children do whatever they want, nor is it about strict control. It’s about finding a respectful balance. Within clear, consistent boundaries, toddlers are free to make choices, explore, and follow their interests. Limits exist for safety, respect, and harmony, but they’re offered with kindness. Clear actions speak louder than endless explanations. And consistency builds trust.
Hands-on Learning
Toddlers learn by doing. Touching, lifting, pouring, scrubbing, stirring. These aren’t distractions from learning. They are learning. Their hands connect them to the world. Practical life activities like setting the table or watering plants aren’t chores. They’re meaningful work that builds coordination, focus, and confidence.
Order
Toddlers thrive on routine and consistency. They like things to be where they expect them, and they feel calmer when the day follows a familiar rhythm. This love of order isn’t about being rigid. It’s about helping them make sense of their surroundings. Predictability gives them a sense of control, which helps reduce frustration and big emotions.
Observation
This might be the most important skill of all. Slowing down enough to simply watch your child, not to judge or correct, but to really see what they’re trying to figure out, can change everything. You’ll start to notice patterns. You’ll begin to anticipate their needs before things escalate. And you’ll build a deeper connection because you’re responding to who your child actually is, not who you assumed they would be.
These principles aren’t a script. They’re more like a lens. Once you start seeing your toddler through this lens, you realize they’re not acting out. They’re acting with purpose. They’re not trying to make life harder. They’re trying to grow.
And with the right kind of support, they can.
The Prepared Adult
When we think about Montessori, our minds often go straight to the child. Their natural curiosity. Their drive to learn. The beautifully arranged spaces and quiet concentration. But there’s one essential piece that sometimes gets less attention, even though it holds everything else together.
That piece is the adult.
Dr. Montessori believed that the adult is not just a helper or supervisor. The adult is a guide. A steady, thoughtful presence. And in order to truly support a child, we need to prepare ourselves just as carefully as we prepare the environment.
The Importance of Self-Preparation
Being a prepared adult doesn’t mean getting everything right. It doesn’t mean following every parenting book to the letter. What it really means is being aware of ourselves. How we respond when things get messy. What happens inside us when we feel frustrated or rushed. What patterns we bring from our own childhood.
This kind of reflection is quiet and personal. It helps us show up with more calm and clarity. Simone Davies often says that Montessori is not just about what we do, but about how we are with children. That includes being curious, open, and connected, even in the hard moments.
Caring for Your Physical Well-being
Your body needs care too. Parenting toddlers is physically demanding. There’s a lot of lifting, bending, chasing, and cleaning. It helps to rest when you can. To eat in a way that keeps your energy up. To move your body in ways that feel good. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Small, simple habits make a difference.
When you take care of yourself, you respond with more patience. You’re better able to stay calm when your child melts down over the green cup instead of the blue one. And you're less likely to snap when they insist on doing something the hardest possible way.
Staying Open to Learning
No one has all the answers. Not even Montessori teachers. What makes a prepared adult is the willingness to keep learning. That means observing your child closely and noticing what works and what doesn’t. It means being flexible. Letting go of what’s not serving your child and trying something new.
It might mean reading books, listening to a podcast, or even learning something completely unrelated to parenting just because it brings you joy. That joy, that curiosity, is something your child will pick up on too.
Practicing Presence and Observation
Toddlers live fully in the moment. They notice everything. The light on the wall, the sound of the washing machine, the feel of a spoon in their hand. When we slow down and watch them with the same care, we start to see more.
Observation in Montessori means watching like a camera. Just noticing. No judgment. No need to analyze. Just paying attention to what your child is doing, what they are trying to master, and how they move through their space.
This helps us respond more thoughtfully. It tells us when to step in with help and when to step back. It helps us build a home that truly supports our child, because we’re tuning into what they actually need, not just what we assume they need.
Filling Your Emotional Bucket
Toddlers have big emotions. So do adults. If you’re always putting yourself last, those feelings will eventually show up as tension, burnout, or frustration.
Make space for your own emotions. Notice what helps you feel steady. That might be time alone. A moment of quiet. A walk, a bath, or a short conversation with someone who gets it.
Simone Davies compares toddlers to full glasses. They are doing their best. But so are you. You deserve care too.
Slowing Down to Match Their Rhythm
Toddlers move slowly and with purpose. They might stop to look at a bug or insist on zipping their jacket themselves. These moments often test our patience, especially when we’re running late or feeling stretched.
But Montessori invites us to embrace what Carl Honoré calls the "tempo giusto" — the right pace. Sometimes that means moving quickly. Other times it means slowing down. Taking a breath. Giving your child space to finish what they’re working on before rushing to the next thing.
Unless your child is in immediate danger, pausing before reacting can help everyone feel more grounded.
Guiding with Confidence and Trust
You are not your child’s boss. You are not their servant either. You are their guide.
This means preparing the environment so they can act with independence. It means giving them real choices and meaningful tasks. It also means stepping in with support when they need it, then stepping back to let them try again.
Being a guide means trusting your child’s natural desire to learn. It means knowing that your job is not to control every move, but to create the conditions where learning and growth can unfold.
Using Your Home as a Helper
A well-prepared home supports both the child and the adult. When things are within reach, when there’s a place for everything, when the environment encourages independence, your child can do more on their own.
This also means fewer interruptions for you. Less chasing down lost shoes. Less resistance at mealtimes. Less frustration around transitions.
The principles we explored earlier — child-sized furniture, clear organization, and beauty in simplicity — help the whole family. They reduce stress and bring more flow to the day.
As Simone Davies reminds us, preparing the home is not just for the child. It also makes life easier for the adult.
Being a prepared adult is not about having all the answers or following every rule. It’s about becoming more present, more reflective, and more open. It’s about caring for yourself so you can care for your child. And it’s about building a home life that feels calmer, more connected, and more joyful.
You are not just raising a child. You are growing too.
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
Once you understand the basic ideas behind Montessori, it becomes clear that this approach isn’t just about schools. It’s about how we see children. And that starts at home.
You don’t need expensive materials or a complete home makeover. What matters most is intention. A space that welcomes your toddler’s independence, movement, and curiosity can completely change how daily life feels — for both of you.
We’re not aiming for perfection. Just thoughtful design based on what helps your child grow.
General Principles for Setting Up Your Home
A few key ideas can guide you, no matter how big or small your space is.
Start with size. A toddler-sized chair where their feet touch the ground. A table they can sit at comfortably. Tools that fit their hands. When children can physically manage things on their own, they naturally want to participate more. And they can, without always needing help.
Keep it simple and beautiful. An uncluttered space helps toddlers focus. You don’t need elaborate décor. Just a few calm, pleasing touches at their eye level — maybe a plant, a piece of artwork, or a soft rug to sit on. Natural textures like wood, baskets, and fabric bring a quiet sense of warmth.
Encourage independence. Place toys and materials in trays or small baskets. Set up low shelves so your child can reach what they need without asking. Store snacks and cups in places they can access. The more they can do on their own, the less friction you’ll both experience.
Create order. Toddlers often crave routine and predictability. Giving everything a designated spot helps them understand where things go and how to clean up. When their environment makes sense, they feel more secure.
Avoid overwhelm. You don’t need to offer every toy or activity at once. A small selection on display is enough. Rotate items occasionally to keep things interesting. Fewer choices mean better focus.
Make it cozy. This part is often overlooked. Comfort matters. Add cushions, soft lighting, or a small blanket where they like to sit. These small details help create a space your child wants to be in.
And finally, remember that a well-prepared environment doesn’t just benefit your child — it also lightens your load. If your toddler can pour their own water or get their own shoes, that’s one less thing you need to manage. Susan Stephenson, an experienced Montessori teacher, often adjusted environments based on what children kept asking help with. Her goal wasn’t just independence. It was peace.
Room-by-Room Ideas
You don’t have to change everything at once. Start where it feels easiest. Here are some examples of how the same principles can be applied throughout your home.
In the entrance, think about how your child can take part in routines. Low hooks for coats and bags. A basket for shoes. A place to sit while getting dressed. Even a small tray for seasonal items like sunglasses or mittens can help your child feel more involved.
In the living room, create a spot that belongs to them. Maybe it’s a small chair and a shelf with a few favorite toys or books. Keep it simple. When everything is accessible and well spaced, your child is more likely to use it purposefully.
In the kitchen, let them join in. A small stool can help them reach the counter. A low shelf can hold their own dishes or a few snacks. If you use placemats, consider outlining where the plate and utensils go. It supports learning in a subtle, visual way.
In the bedroom, consider a low bed or mattress on the floor so your child can get in and out without assistance. Use low drawers or bins for clothes, so they can help choose what to wear and begin dressing themselves. A mirror at their level can also support this growing independence.
In the bathroom, a stool for the sink and a few essentials within reach can go a long way. A low shelf with tissues, a brush, and maybe a washcloth gives your toddler a chance to care for themselves. As they grow, a changing setup that allows standing diaper changes can be more respectful and collaborative.
For arts and crafts, you don’t need an entire room. Just a small area with paper, crayons, and glue set out in trays is enough. Over time, you can introduce scissors, tape, and collage materials. What matters most is that everything has a clear place and is easy to put away.
Create a reading nook, too. This could be as simple as a few cushions on a rug and a basket of books. When books are within reach and displayed attractively, children are drawn to them naturally.
And don’t forget the outdoors. If you have a yard or balcony, offer chances to water plants, dig in the dirt, or transfer pebbles. If you don’t, visits to nearby green spaces, playgrounds, or parks can still support your child’s physical development and love for nature.
Creating a Montessori-inspired home isn’t about getting everything “right.” It’s about small choices that help your toddler feel capable, calm, and included. The goal is a space that invites your child to be part of daily life — not just observe it.
Even just one small change can shift the energy in your home.
And over time, those changes add up.
Montessori in Daily Routines
Montessori isn’t just about shelves, trays, and classrooms. It’s about how we live with our children. The way we move through everyday routines can either feel like a constant battle or a series of quiet opportunities to connect, support growth, and build skills that will last a lifetime.
By applying Montessori principles to the small, daily moments, we give toddlers the chance to participate meaningfully in their own lives. That’s where real learning happens — not just in planned activities, but in the rhythm of shared living.
Daily Rhythm and Rituals
Toddlers thrive on predictability. It gives them a sense of safety, and it helps prevent many of the struggles that come from sudden transitions or unexpected changes. But this doesn’t mean you need a strict, minute-by-minute schedule. Think rhythm, not routine. A consistent flow to the day, adjusted to your child’s natural energy levels, is often enough.
A day might start with quiet play in the bedroom, followed by cuddles and a story. Then a bathroom visit, breakfast, getting dressed, and heading out or playing at home. After lunch, there’s rest or nap time, followed by a bit more play, a snack, dinner, bath, books, and bedtime.
It’s not about checking off each item like a to-do list. It’s about giving your child a sense of what comes next, and with it, a feeling of calm and security.
Getting Dressed and Leaving the House
Supporting independence with dressing can begin much earlier than most people expect. Toddlers are eager to do things for themselves — we just need to give them the time, space, and tools to try.
Low drawers or baskets with a few weather-appropriate options make it easier for children to choose their clothes. You can show them how to use the Montessori coat flip, a simple trick for putting on their coat without help.
Leaving the house becomes much smoother with a well-prepared entry space. A low hook for a coat, a small basket for shoes, a seat for putting them on — all of this adds up. Instead of feeling like you’re always rushing out the door, these moments become collaborative. You might ask, “Would you like to wear your blue shoes or your black ones today?” and suddenly, the power struggle fades.
Eating
Mealtimes are full of opportunity — not just for nourishment, but for connection and participation. Toddlers love to help. Preparing the table, pouring water, adding a sprig of herbs to a salad — these small acts matter.
You might keep their bowl and cup in a low cupboard so they can get it themselves. You can even mark a placemat with outlines to show where the plate and utensils go, giving them a visual guide.
When baking, toddlers can pour pre-measured ingredients, stir batter, or press cookie cutters into dough. Yes, it might get messy. But the pride they feel from being part of it is worth wiping up a little flour.
And as often as possible, sit and eat together. Even a short meal shared without distractions helps your toddler feel part of something meaningful.
Sleeping
A peaceful sleep space supports a sense of independence and calm. The room should feel simple and restful, free from too many visual distractions. A floor mattress or low bed allows your toddler to get in and out on their own, giving them a little more agency around sleep.
A red-toned nightlight can provide comfort without disrupting melatonin production. And while Montessori training often recommends independent sleeping, the reality is that families are different. What matters is whether your child wakes rested and seems content during the day. Observe them, and let that guide your decisions more than any one method.
Toileting
Toilet learning doesn’t need to be stressful or rushed. It’s a natural part of development, and your child will show signs of readiness in their own time.
Try offering the toilet at regular intervals, especially after meals or sleep. Rather than asking if they need to go, you can simply lead them to the bathroom as part of the routine. Toddlers often say “no” automatically, even when they mean “yes.”
If they wet their clothes, respond without frustration. A gentle comment like, “You have wet clothes, let’s go change,” is enough. No shame. No pressure. Just calm, respectful support. Over time, they’ll begin to recognize their own signals and take more initiative.
Dealing with Changes
Big transitions are hard for small children. They thrive on familiarity, so things like giving up a pacifier, starting daycare, or welcoming a new sibling can be overwhelming.
Montessori encourages gradual transitions wherever possible. For example, phasing out a pacifier slowly, involving your toddler in preparing for a sibling, or using stories and role-play to process upcoming changes. Keep your daily rhythm as consistent as you can during these times. That familiar structure becomes a comforting anchor.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings. You might say, “It’s hard when things change. I’m here.” That sense of being seen helps them navigate even the toughest transitions.
Useful Skills to Support at Home
Every toddler is learning more than we realize. And we can support that learning in subtle, powerful ways.
Sharing
Instead of insisting on sharing, try supporting turn-taking. In Montessori classrooms, there is usually only one of each material. At home, you can explain that they can use a toy as long as they like, and their sibling or friend can have it when they’re done. Before visitors arrive, ask which toys they’re happy to share and which ones can be put away.
Interrupting respectfully
Toddlers can learn to get your attention without shouting or pulling on your clothes. One idea is to teach them to place a hand on your arm or leg while you’re speaking. You can acknowledge them with a touch and respond as soon as you’re able. It’s a respectful habit that helps them feel heard.
Supporting quiet or introverted children
Some toddlers need more downtime. Give them space for solitary play, provide cozy nooks for reading, and don’t push too hard for social interaction. Respecting their need for calm shows them that their way of being is valid too.
Managing tricky behaviors
When your toddler hits, bites, or throws, acknowledge the feeling without accepting the behavior. You can say, “You’re angry, but I won’t let you hit.” Then help them repair the situation afterward. This teaches both empathy and accountability.
Building concentration
If your child is deeply focused, avoid jumping in. Let them work through challenges, and only offer help if they’re clearly stuck. A small table or mat can define their workspace and support sustained attention.
Handling frustration
It’s okay for your child to struggle. Mastery often comes after difficulty. Wait, observe, and only step in if they’re about to give up. Sometimes a little encouragement or one small step of help is all they need to keep going.
By weaving Montessori ideas into everyday routines, you create more than just structure. You create trust. You invite collaboration. And you give your toddler the quiet message that they are capable, valued, and an active part of the family.
Even ordinary moments — getting dressed, pouring water, or brushing teeth — can become meaningful, peaceful, and full of growth.
Once you understand the basic ideas behind Montessori, it becomes clear that this approach isn’t just about schools. It’s about how we see children. And that starts at home.
You don’t need expensive materials or a complete home makeover. What matters most is intention. A space that welcomes your toddler’s independence, movement, and curiosity can completely change how daily life feels — for both of you.
We’re not aiming for perfection. Just thoughtful design based on what helps your child grow.
General Principles for Setting Up Your Home
A few key ideas can guide you, no matter how big or small your space is.
Start with size. A toddler-sized chair where their feet touch the ground. A table they can sit at comfortably. Tools that fit their hands. When children can physically manage things on their own, they naturally want to participate more. And they can, without always needing help.
Keep it simple and beautiful. An uncluttered space helps toddlers focus. You don’t need elaborate décor. Just a few calm, pleasing touches at their eye level — maybe a plant, a piece of artwork, or a soft rug to sit on. Natural textures like wood, baskets, and fabric bring a quiet sense of warmth.
Encourage independence. Place toys and materials in trays or small baskets. Set up low shelves so your child can reach what they need without asking. Store snacks and cups in places they can access. The more they can do on their own, the less friction you’ll both experience.
Create order. Toddlers often crave routine and predictability. Giving everything a designated spot helps them understand where things go and how to clean up. When their environment makes sense, they feel more secure.
Avoid overwhelm. You don’t need to offer every toy or activity at once. A small selection on display is enough. Rotate items occasionally to keep things interesting. Fewer choices mean better focus.
Make it cozy. This part is often overlooked. Comfort matters. Add cushions, soft lighting, or a small blanket where they like to sit. These small details help create a space your child wants to be in.
And finally, remember that a well-prepared environment doesn’t just benefit your child — it also lightens your load. If your toddler can pour their own water or get their own shoes, that’s one less thing you need to manage. Susan Stephenson, an experienced Montessori teacher, often adjusted environments based on what children kept asking help with. Her goal wasn’t just independence. It was peace.
Room-by-Room Ideas
You don’t have to change everything at once. Start where it feels easiest. Here are some examples of how the same principles can be applied throughout your home.
In the entrance, think about how your child can take part in routines. Low hooks for coats and bags. A basket for shoes. A place to sit while getting dressed. Even a small tray for seasonal items like sunglasses or mittens can help your child feel more involved.
In the living room, create a spot that belongs to them. Maybe it’s a small chair and a shelf with a few favorite toys or books. Keep it simple. When everything is accessible and well spaced, your child is more likely to use it purposefully.
In the kitchen, let them join in. A small stool can help them reach the counter. A low shelf can hold their own dishes or a few snacks. If you use placemats, consider outlining where the plate and utensils go. It supports learning in a subtle, visual way.
In the bedroom, consider a low bed or mattress on the floor so your child can get in and out without assistance. Use low drawers or bins for clothes, so they can help choose what to wear and begin dressing themselves. A mirror at their level can also support this growing independence.
In the bathroom, a stool for the sink and a few essentials within reach can go a long way. A low shelf with tissues, a brush, and maybe a washcloth gives your toddler a chance to care for themselves. As they grow, a changing setup that allows standing diaper changes can be more respectful and collaborative.
For arts and crafts, you don’t need an entire room. Just a small area with paper, crayons, and glue set out in trays is enough. Over time, you can introduce scissors, tape, and collage materials. What matters most is that everything has a clear place and is easy to put away.
Create a reading nook, too. This could be as simple as a few cushions on a rug and a basket of books. When books are within reach and displayed attractively, children are drawn to them naturally.
And don’t forget the outdoors. If you have a yard or balcony, offer chances to water plants, dig in the dirt, or transfer pebbles. If you don’t, visits to nearby green spaces, playgrounds, or parks can still support your child’s physical development and love for nature.
Creating a Montessori-inspired home isn’t about getting everything “right.” It’s about small choices that help your toddler feel capable, calm, and included. The goal is a space that invites your child to be part of daily life — not just observe it.
Even just one small change can shift the energy in your home.
And over time, those changes add up.
Montessori in Daily Routines
Montessori isn’t just about shelves, trays, and classrooms. It’s about how we live with our children. The way we move through everyday routines can either feel like a constant battle or a series of quiet opportunities to connect, support growth, and build skills that will last a lifetime.
By applying Montessori principles to the small, daily moments, we give toddlers the chance to participate meaningfully in their own lives. That’s where real learning happens — not just in planned activities, but in the rhythm of shared living.
Daily Rhythm and Rituals
Toddlers thrive on predictability. It gives them a sense of safety, and it helps prevent many of the struggles that come from sudden transitions or unexpected changes. But this doesn’t mean you need a strict, minute-by-minute schedule. Think rhythm, not routine. A consistent flow to the day, adjusted to your child’s natural energy levels, is often enough.
A day might start with quiet play in the bedroom, followed by cuddles and a story. Then a bathroom visit, breakfast, getting dressed, and heading out or playing at home. After lunch, there’s rest or nap time, followed by a bit more play, a snack, dinner, bath, books, and bedtime.
It’s not about checking off each item like a to-do list. It’s about giving your child a sense of what comes next, and with it, a feeling of calm and security.
Getting Dressed and Leaving the House
Supporting independence with dressing can begin much earlier than most people expect. Toddlers are eager to do things for themselves — we just need to give them the time, space, and tools to try.
Low drawers or baskets with a few weather-appropriate options make it easier for children to choose their clothes. You can show them how to use the Montessori coat flip, a simple trick for putting on their coat without help.
Leaving the house becomes much smoother with a well-prepared entry space. A low hook for a coat, a small basket for shoes, a seat for putting them on — all of this adds up. Instead of feeling like you’re always rushing out the door, these moments become collaborative. You might ask, “Would you like to wear your blue shoes or your black ones today?” and suddenly, the power struggle fades.
Eating
Mealtimes are full of opportunity — not just for nourishment, but for connection and participation. Toddlers love to help. Preparing the table, pouring water, adding a sprig of herbs to a salad — these small acts matter.
You might keep their bowl and cup in a low cupboard so they can get it themselves. You can even mark a placemat with outlines to show where the plate and utensils go, giving them a visual guide.
When baking, toddlers can pour pre-measured ingredients, stir batter, or press cookie cutters into dough. Yes, it might get messy. But the pride they feel from being part of it is worth wiping up a little flour.
And as often as possible, sit and eat together. Even a short meal shared without distractions helps your toddler feel part of something meaningful.
Sleeping
A peaceful sleep space supports a sense of independence and calm. The room should feel simple and restful, free from too many visual distractions. A floor mattress or low bed allows your toddler to get in and out on their own, giving them a little more agency around sleep.
A red-toned nightlight can provide comfort without disrupting melatonin production. And while Montessori training often recommends independent sleeping, the reality is that families are different. What matters is whether your child wakes rested and seems content during the day. Observe them, and let that guide your decisions more than any one method.
Toileting
Toilet learning doesn’t need to be stressful or rushed. It’s a natural part of development, and your child will show signs of readiness in their own time.
Try offering the toilet at regular intervals, especially after meals or sleep. Rather than asking if they need to go, you can simply lead them to the bathroom as part of the routine. Toddlers often say “no” automatically, even when they mean “yes.”
If they wet their clothes, respond without frustration. A gentle comment like, “You have wet clothes, let’s go change,” is enough. No shame. No pressure. Just calm, respectful support. Over time, they’ll begin to recognize their own signals and take more initiative.
Dealing with Changes
Big transitions are hard for small children. They thrive on familiarity, so things like giving up a pacifier, starting daycare, or welcoming a new sibling can be overwhelming.
Montessori encourages gradual transitions wherever possible. For example, phasing out a pacifier slowly, involving your toddler in preparing for a sibling, or using stories and role-play to process upcoming changes. Keep your daily rhythm as consistent as you can during these times. That familiar structure becomes a comforting anchor.
Acknowledge your child’s feelings. You might say, “It’s hard when things change. I’m here.” That sense of being seen helps them navigate even the toughest transitions.
Useful Skills to Support at Home
Every toddler is learning more than we realize. And we can support that learning in subtle, powerful ways.
Sharing
Instead of insisting on sharing, try supporting turn-taking. In Montessori classrooms, there is usually only one of each material. At home, you can explain that they can use a toy as long as they like, and their sibling or friend can have it when they’re done. Before visitors arrive, ask which toys they’re happy to share and which ones can be put away.
Interrupting respectfully
Toddlers can learn to get your attention without shouting or pulling on your clothes. One idea is to teach them to place a hand on your arm or leg while you’re speaking. You can acknowledge them with a touch and respond as soon as you’re able. It’s a respectful habit that helps them feel heard.
Supporting quiet or introverted children
Some toddlers need more downtime. Give them space for solitary play, provide cozy nooks for reading, and don’t push too hard for social interaction. Respecting their need for calm shows them that their way of being is valid too.
Managing tricky behaviors
When your toddler hits, bites, or throws, acknowledge the feeling without accepting the behavior. You can say, “You’re angry, but I won’t let you hit.” Then help them repair the situation afterward. This teaches both empathy and accountability.
Building concentration
If your child is deeply focused, avoid jumping in. Let them work through challenges, and only offer help if they’re clearly stuck. A small table or mat can define their workspace and support sustained attention.
Handling frustration
It’s okay for your child to struggle. Mastery often comes after difficulty. Wait, observe, and only step in if they’re about to give up. Sometimes a little encouragement or one small step of help is all they need to keep going.
By weaving Montessori ideas into everyday routines, you create more than just structure. You create trust. You invite collaboration. And you give your toddler the quiet message that they are capable, valued, and an active part of the family.
Even ordinary moments — getting dressed, pouring water, or brushing teeth — can become meaningful, peaceful, and full of growth.
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlerhood is often described as a whirlwind, and for good reason. There’s so much going on at once. One moment your child is exploring the kitchen drawer with intense concentration, and the next, they’re in full protest because their sock doesn’t feel right. Beneath all the chaos, though, is something remarkable.
This is a time of rapid growth and deep learning. Toddlers aren’t just trying to survive the day. They’re building a framework for how to interact with the world. The Montessori approach helps support this development by respecting the child’s curiosity, nurturing cooperation, and slowly, gently, helping them take responsibility in age-appropriate ways.
Encouraging Curiosity
Children are naturally curious. You don’t need to teach a baby to want to crawl or a toddler to want to figure things out. That desire is built in. Dr. Montessori observed this clearly in her work — children learn because they want to, not because they’re told to.
Our role is to protect that drive. Not by filling every moment with stimulation, but by creating an environment that allows curiosity to flourish without pressure.
Here are five ingredients that help support your toddler’s natural curiosity:
1. Trust
Trust that your child knows what they need to work on. Every toddler has their own pace and their own interests. When we believe in that process, we can step back a little and stop trying to push learning. If the environment is rich and responsive, the learning will happen on its own.
2. A rich environment
This doesn’t mean shelves full of expensive toys. It means giving your child access to things that invite exploration — nature, everyday objects, things they can touch and move. Watch closely and notice what they’re working on right now. Then offer more of that.
3. Time
Go slow. Allow long stretches of unhurried time. Toddlers don’t benefit from being rushed from one thing to the next. When they have time to follow their own interests, they’re more focused, more calm, and more likely to discover something meaningful.
4. A safe base
Children explore more freely when they know they have somewhere safe to return to. That can be a physical place, like a cozy reading nook, or an emotional one, like a warm hug when things feel overwhelming. Safety invites exploration.
5. Wonder
A sense of wonder isn’t taught through instruction. It grows when children are given space to discover. A walk in the woods, a shadow on the wall, a ladybug crawling across the floor — these are the moments that make curiosity bloom.
And when you’re ready to take it a step further, these seven principles help guide curious minds:
Follow the child
Let their interests lead. If they’re absorbed in building or watching ants on the sidewalk, resist the urge to redirect. Deep focus is where the learning lives.Encourage hands-on experiences
Toddlers learn best through their senses. Touch, smell, taste, sound, and sight all help them understand how things work. Explore together. Try small experiments. Visit the library to find books about their current obsession. Instead of simply saying "no," offer a different way to explore.Include them in your day
They want to be part of what you’re doing. Invite them to stir the pancake batter, carry the mail, or help sweep up crumbs. It might take longer, but it builds their sense of contribution.Go slow
Embrace the toddler pace. Stop to look at the ants, let them pour their own milk, and take a deep breath while they zip their coat. Being present with them in these small moments shows them that their pace is valid."Help me to help myself"
Make sure the environment supports independence. Break big tasks into small steps. Show, pause, and then let them try. Step in only when they need it, and step back when they don’t.Encourage creativity
Avoid overly structured crafts. Let them explore materials freely. Offer real art supplies — paper, crayons, glue, maybe even some fabric scraps or natural objects. The goal is self-expression, not perfection.Observe without judging
Take the time to watch. Notice what they’re drawn to, what they’re working to master, and what they might need help with. Observation reveals more than words ever could.
Fostering Cooperation
Every toddler parent has faced resistance. Getting dressed, leaving the park, brushing teeth — it can all feel like a battle. But cooperation isn’t about control. It’s about connection.
The Montessori approach avoids threats, bribes, and punishments. These methods might get short-term results, but they don’t build understanding or trust. Cooperation grows from within when children feel respected, involved, and heard.
Why avoid bribes and punishments?
Because they shift the focus. Instead of doing something because it feels right or helpful, a child starts doing it to avoid punishment or earn a reward. That interrupts their internal motivation. Montessori teaches us to lean into connection instead. Teach through calm presence and firm, loving boundaries.
Problem-solving with toddlers
They might be small, but toddlers love to help solve problems. You can ask, “What can we do about this?” and invite them to think with you. Even a basic checklist with pictures can help. Giving them ownership over the solution makes them more likely to follow through.
Here are a few ways to encourage cooperation gently:
Offer choices
Let them choose which socks to wear or whether they want to walk or be carried. These small decisions help them feel in control.Use simple language
One-word reminders like “Shoes” or “Water” are often more effective than long explanations.Get their agreement
Try asking, “Ready to clean up the blocks?” instead of giving a command. Waiting for a response builds mutual respect.Invite them to help
Children love to be helpful. Ask them to carry something, find your keys, or hold a shopping list.Say yes more often
Reserve “no” for safety or truly important moments. If “no” is said too often, it starts to lose its meaning.Show instead of telling
Sometimes a quiet demonstration is all that’s needed. Actions often speak louder than instructions.
Helping toddlers listen
It’s not always about what you say, but how you say it.
Use positive language. Say “Walk, please” instead of “Don’t run.”
Speak with the same respect you’d give to an adult.
During the "no" phase, frame instructions as questions or invitations.
Show the behavior you want to see, rather than simply describing it.
Be realistic
Toddlers are impulsive, emotional, and driven by a need to explore. Expecting them to behave like small adults isn’t fair to them — or to you. Allow time for transitions. Give them space to process what you’ve said. Keep a steady rhythm to the day so they know what to expect.
Set clear limits
Boundaries are loving. Be calm, clear, and consistent. Limits should make sense to your child, not just feel like rules. Follow through with kind action. And remember, you’re not just setting rules — you’re teaching respect for people, space, and self.
Support emotional growth
Acknowledge big feelings. You can say, “You’re sad. That’s okay. I’m here.” You don’t have to allow hitting or shouting, but you can still validate the emotion underneath. When the storm passes, help them make amends if someone was hurt. This builds empathy and responsibility.
Cultivating Responsibility
Responsibility doesn’t happen overnight. It grows slowly, through repeated chances to contribute.
Your toddler wants to be part of family life. They want to help mix the dough, sweep the floor, or wipe the table. These small moments are big lessons in caring, patience, and being needed.
Let them help you get dressed. Hand them the socks. Let them pull the shirt over their head. Even if it takes a little longer, they’re practicing — not just the physical task, but the belief that they are capable.
Support their independence
Make things accessible. Keep water within reach, set up snack stations they can manage, and let them decide when they want a break. Every time they do something for themselves, their confidence grows.
Teach turn-taking gently
Montessori classrooms often have one of each material. Children learn to wait or find something else until it’s available. At home, you can use the same principle. Instead of forcing sharing, support waiting. Before guests arrive, help your child choose which toys they’re happy to share. This approach respects both their autonomy and the presence of others.
Responsibility, like curiosity and cooperation, starts with small steps. When toddlers are given the chance to participate, explore, and contribute in meaningful ways, they don’t just feel like part of the family, they are.
And that sense of belonging is where lifelong learning really begins.
Extending Montessori Principles to the Family
Montessori begins with the child, but it doesn’t have to stop there.
When we apply these principles across the whole family, the benefits ripple outward. Life becomes a little more cooperative, a little calmer, and often, a lot more connected. Everyone in the home, not just the toddler, has needs. Everyone deserves respect. And when adults work together, the child thrives.
Parents Are People Too
It’s so easy to disappear into your child’s needs. You spend your days anticipating meltdowns, preparing snacks, and answering endless questions. Somewhere along the way, it can feel like your own needs start slipping to the bottom of the list.
But Montessori never asked parents to become invisible. In fact, Simone Davies puts it simply: following the child doesn’t mean ignoring yourself.
You are part of the equation. Your feelings, boundaries, and preferences matter. Your child needs to see you as a person, not just a provider. When you care for yourself and speak up clearly about what you need, you’re modeling something powerful — respectful communication and mutual care.
Finding that balance takes time. But it’s worth working toward. Not just for you, but for your child too.
Working Together as a Family
The foundation of all collaboration is communication. Honest, respectful conversations are what hold families together when things get messy.
It helps to remember that Montessori encourages us to treat children with the same respect we offer adults. The reverse is also true. Adults in the home should be spoken to with patience and care, even when there are differences in opinion or approach.
Listening with curiosity, not defensiveness, opens the door to teamwork. When family members feel heard, they’re more likely to support each other, even when things don’t go perfectly.
This doesn’t mean every moment will be harmonious. But it does mean you’ll have the tools to return to connection when things fall apart.
Getting Grandparents and Caregivers On Board
It’s common to face resistance when you start doing things differently. Grandparents might be confused by your parenting style. Caregivers might be unsure about your child-led approach. That’s okay.
You don’t have to convince everyone all at once. Start with small conversations. Share articles, tell stories, or simply let them watch your child in action. Many people come around after seeing how calm and capable a child can be in a well-prepared environment.
Rather than correcting everything, focus on the big picture. Consistency in the essentials — like sleep routines, communication, and respect — gives your toddler the security they need. Differences in snack choices or how toys are offered don’t need to become points of tension.
And when in doubt, remember this: every adult has their own inner child. Sometimes their resistance is really about wanting to be acknowledged and included. A little empathy can go a long way.
Handling Conflict Within the Family
Disagreements are part of life. And when a household includes young children, tired parents, and multiple opinions, tension is bound to show up now and then.
The goal isn’t to avoid conflict. It’s to handle it with the same principles you apply to your toddler. Respect. Listening. Problem-solving. When someone feels frustrated, start by acknowledging their point of view. When a boundary is crossed, respond with calm clarity.
This also means involving your child in conflict resolution. Even toddlers can be part of finding solutions. You might say, “We both want to play with the ball. What can we do?” or “You want Mama, but Papa is here to help right now.” Respecting their preferences while staying grounded in your role helps build trust over time.
Adults can learn from this too. Solving problems together rather than assigning blame teaches cooperation from the inside out.
A Family Built on Respect
When we extend Montessori beyond the child and into the fabric of the family, everything begins to shift.
We start speaking more kindly, even when we disagree. We notice each other’s efforts. We give space for individual differences while working toward shared rhythms and values. And most importantly, we create an environment where everyone — children and adults — feels seen.
That doesn’t mean things are always easy. But it does mean that your home becomes a place where growth is possible for everyone.
Because when respect and collaboration guide the family, connection becomes the foundation.
And from that foundation, the child flourishes.
Toddlerhood is often described as a whirlwind, and for good reason. There’s so much going on at once. One moment your child is exploring the kitchen drawer with intense concentration, and the next, they’re in full protest because their sock doesn’t feel right. Beneath all the chaos, though, is something remarkable.
This is a time of rapid growth and deep learning. Toddlers aren’t just trying to survive the day. They’re building a framework for how to interact with the world. The Montessori approach helps support this development by respecting the child’s curiosity, nurturing cooperation, and slowly, gently, helping them take responsibility in age-appropriate ways.
Encouraging Curiosity
Children are naturally curious. You don’t need to teach a baby to want to crawl or a toddler to want to figure things out. That desire is built in. Dr. Montessori observed this clearly in her work — children learn because they want to, not because they’re told to.
Our role is to protect that drive. Not by filling every moment with stimulation, but by creating an environment that allows curiosity to flourish without pressure.
Here are five ingredients that help support your toddler’s natural curiosity:
1. Trust
Trust that your child knows what they need to work on. Every toddler has their own pace and their own interests. When we believe in that process, we can step back a little and stop trying to push learning. If the environment is rich and responsive, the learning will happen on its own.
2. A rich environment
This doesn’t mean shelves full of expensive toys. It means giving your child access to things that invite exploration — nature, everyday objects, things they can touch and move. Watch closely and notice what they’re working on right now. Then offer more of that.
3. Time
Go slow. Allow long stretches of unhurried time. Toddlers don’t benefit from being rushed from one thing to the next. When they have time to follow their own interests, they’re more focused, more calm, and more likely to discover something meaningful.
4. A safe base
Children explore more freely when they know they have somewhere safe to return to. That can be a physical place, like a cozy reading nook, or an emotional one, like a warm hug when things feel overwhelming. Safety invites exploration.
5. Wonder
A sense of wonder isn’t taught through instruction. It grows when children are given space to discover. A walk in the woods, a shadow on the wall, a ladybug crawling across the floor — these are the moments that make curiosity bloom.
And when you’re ready to take it a step further, these seven principles help guide curious minds:
Follow the child
Let their interests lead. If they’re absorbed in building or watching ants on the sidewalk, resist the urge to redirect. Deep focus is where the learning lives.Encourage hands-on experiences
Toddlers learn best through their senses. Touch, smell, taste, sound, and sight all help them understand how things work. Explore together. Try small experiments. Visit the library to find books about their current obsession. Instead of simply saying "no," offer a different way to explore.Include them in your day
They want to be part of what you’re doing. Invite them to stir the pancake batter, carry the mail, or help sweep up crumbs. It might take longer, but it builds their sense of contribution.Go slow
Embrace the toddler pace. Stop to look at the ants, let them pour their own milk, and take a deep breath while they zip their coat. Being present with them in these small moments shows them that their pace is valid."Help me to help myself"
Make sure the environment supports independence. Break big tasks into small steps. Show, pause, and then let them try. Step in only when they need it, and step back when they don’t.Encourage creativity
Avoid overly structured crafts. Let them explore materials freely. Offer real art supplies — paper, crayons, glue, maybe even some fabric scraps or natural objects. The goal is self-expression, not perfection.Observe without judging
Take the time to watch. Notice what they’re drawn to, what they’re working to master, and what they might need help with. Observation reveals more than words ever could.
Fostering Cooperation
Every toddler parent has faced resistance. Getting dressed, leaving the park, brushing teeth — it can all feel like a battle. But cooperation isn’t about control. It’s about connection.
The Montessori approach avoids threats, bribes, and punishments. These methods might get short-term results, but they don’t build understanding or trust. Cooperation grows from within when children feel respected, involved, and heard.
Why avoid bribes and punishments?
Because they shift the focus. Instead of doing something because it feels right or helpful, a child starts doing it to avoid punishment or earn a reward. That interrupts their internal motivation. Montessori teaches us to lean into connection instead. Teach through calm presence and firm, loving boundaries.
Problem-solving with toddlers
They might be small, but toddlers love to help solve problems. You can ask, “What can we do about this?” and invite them to think with you. Even a basic checklist with pictures can help. Giving them ownership over the solution makes them more likely to follow through.
Here are a few ways to encourage cooperation gently:
Offer choices
Let them choose which socks to wear or whether they want to walk or be carried. These small decisions help them feel in control.Use simple language
One-word reminders like “Shoes” or “Water” are often more effective than long explanations.Get their agreement
Try asking, “Ready to clean up the blocks?” instead of giving a command. Waiting for a response builds mutual respect.Invite them to help
Children love to be helpful. Ask them to carry something, find your keys, or hold a shopping list.Say yes more often
Reserve “no” for safety or truly important moments. If “no” is said too often, it starts to lose its meaning.Show instead of telling
Sometimes a quiet demonstration is all that’s needed. Actions often speak louder than instructions.
Helping toddlers listen
It’s not always about what you say, but how you say it.
Use positive language. Say “Walk, please” instead of “Don’t run.”
Speak with the same respect you’d give to an adult.
During the "no" phase, frame instructions as questions or invitations.
Show the behavior you want to see, rather than simply describing it.
Be realistic
Toddlers are impulsive, emotional, and driven by a need to explore. Expecting them to behave like small adults isn’t fair to them — or to you. Allow time for transitions. Give them space to process what you’ve said. Keep a steady rhythm to the day so they know what to expect.
Set clear limits
Boundaries are loving. Be calm, clear, and consistent. Limits should make sense to your child, not just feel like rules. Follow through with kind action. And remember, you’re not just setting rules — you’re teaching respect for people, space, and self.
Support emotional growth
Acknowledge big feelings. You can say, “You’re sad. That’s okay. I’m here.” You don’t have to allow hitting or shouting, but you can still validate the emotion underneath. When the storm passes, help them make amends if someone was hurt. This builds empathy and responsibility.
Cultivating Responsibility
Responsibility doesn’t happen overnight. It grows slowly, through repeated chances to contribute.
Your toddler wants to be part of family life. They want to help mix the dough, sweep the floor, or wipe the table. These small moments are big lessons in caring, patience, and being needed.
Let them help you get dressed. Hand them the socks. Let them pull the shirt over their head. Even if it takes a little longer, they’re practicing — not just the physical task, but the belief that they are capable.
Support their independence
Make things accessible. Keep water within reach, set up snack stations they can manage, and let them decide when they want a break. Every time they do something for themselves, their confidence grows.
Teach turn-taking gently
Montessori classrooms often have one of each material. Children learn to wait or find something else until it’s available. At home, you can use the same principle. Instead of forcing sharing, support waiting. Before guests arrive, help your child choose which toys they’re happy to share. This approach respects both their autonomy and the presence of others.
Responsibility, like curiosity and cooperation, starts with small steps. When toddlers are given the chance to participate, explore, and contribute in meaningful ways, they don’t just feel like part of the family, they are.
And that sense of belonging is where lifelong learning really begins.
Extending Montessori Principles to the Family
Montessori begins with the child, but it doesn’t have to stop there.
When we apply these principles across the whole family, the benefits ripple outward. Life becomes a little more cooperative, a little calmer, and often, a lot more connected. Everyone in the home, not just the toddler, has needs. Everyone deserves respect. And when adults work together, the child thrives.
Parents Are People Too
It’s so easy to disappear into your child’s needs. You spend your days anticipating meltdowns, preparing snacks, and answering endless questions. Somewhere along the way, it can feel like your own needs start slipping to the bottom of the list.
But Montessori never asked parents to become invisible. In fact, Simone Davies puts it simply: following the child doesn’t mean ignoring yourself.
You are part of the equation. Your feelings, boundaries, and preferences matter. Your child needs to see you as a person, not just a provider. When you care for yourself and speak up clearly about what you need, you’re modeling something powerful — respectful communication and mutual care.
Finding that balance takes time. But it’s worth working toward. Not just for you, but for your child too.
Working Together as a Family
The foundation of all collaboration is communication. Honest, respectful conversations are what hold families together when things get messy.
It helps to remember that Montessori encourages us to treat children with the same respect we offer adults. The reverse is also true. Adults in the home should be spoken to with patience and care, even when there are differences in opinion or approach.
Listening with curiosity, not defensiveness, opens the door to teamwork. When family members feel heard, they’re more likely to support each other, even when things don’t go perfectly.
This doesn’t mean every moment will be harmonious. But it does mean you’ll have the tools to return to connection when things fall apart.
Getting Grandparents and Caregivers On Board
It’s common to face resistance when you start doing things differently. Grandparents might be confused by your parenting style. Caregivers might be unsure about your child-led approach. That’s okay.
You don’t have to convince everyone all at once. Start with small conversations. Share articles, tell stories, or simply let them watch your child in action. Many people come around after seeing how calm and capable a child can be in a well-prepared environment.
Rather than correcting everything, focus on the big picture. Consistency in the essentials — like sleep routines, communication, and respect — gives your toddler the security they need. Differences in snack choices or how toys are offered don’t need to become points of tension.
And when in doubt, remember this: every adult has their own inner child. Sometimes their resistance is really about wanting to be acknowledged and included. A little empathy can go a long way.
Handling Conflict Within the Family
Disagreements are part of life. And when a household includes young children, tired parents, and multiple opinions, tension is bound to show up now and then.
The goal isn’t to avoid conflict. It’s to handle it with the same principles you apply to your toddler. Respect. Listening. Problem-solving. When someone feels frustrated, start by acknowledging their point of view. When a boundary is crossed, respond with calm clarity.
This also means involving your child in conflict resolution. Even toddlers can be part of finding solutions. You might say, “We both want to play with the ball. What can we do?” or “You want Mama, but Papa is here to help right now.” Respecting their preferences while staying grounded in your role helps build trust over time.
Adults can learn from this too. Solving problems together rather than assigning blame teaches cooperation from the inside out.
A Family Built on Respect
When we extend Montessori beyond the child and into the fabric of the family, everything begins to shift.
We start speaking more kindly, even when we disagree. We notice each other’s efforts. We give space for individual differences while working toward shared rhythms and values. And most importantly, we create an environment where everyone — children and adults — feels seen.
That doesn’t mean things are always easy. But it does mean that your home becomes a place where growth is possible for everyone.
Because when respect and collaboration guide the family, connection becomes the foundation.
And from that foundation, the child flourishes.
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Embracing the Montessori Journey
As you come to the end of this guide, it’s worth pausing for a moment.
Not to check a box or complete a task, but to reflect. Because this is not the end of something. It’s the beginning of a new way of seeing your child, your home, and even yourself.
Montessori with toddlers isn’t about doing everything right. It’s not about strict routines, special toys, or perfect spaces. It’s about connection. It’s about trust. And it’s about growing side by side.
What This Approach Offers
When you bring Montessori ideas into daily life, things begin to shift.
You start seeing your toddler as capable. You invite them to do more for themselves. You create space for them to explore what fascinates them. You let go of some control and discover that cooperation comes more easily when respect leads the way.
Over time, this way of living fosters a love of learning. It builds confidence, not because children are praised for doing things well, but because they’ve experienced the quiet pride of figuring something out on their own.
And perhaps most importantly, it strengthens the bond between you and your child. Not through constant instruction, but through shared presence.
Start Small and Give It Time
It’s tempting to want to change everything at once. But this is a path best taken one step at a time.
Maybe you start by setting up a low shelf with just a few activities. Or by inviting your child to help pour water at lunch. Or simply by sitting quietly and watching what they choose to do with an empty basket and a pile of pebbles.
Each small shift matters. And those little steps add up to big changes over time.
There will be hard days. There will be moments where you feel unsure, frustrated, or exhausted. That’s part of the process. But there will also be moments of calm, connection, and deep joy — the kind that stays with you long after your child has grown.
The Relationship Comes First
At the heart of everything is the relationship between you and your child.
Montessori isn’t about molding your toddler into something specific. It’s about seeing who they already are and helping them become more fully themselves. That requires presence. Observation. Patience. And a deep respect for the small but mighty person in front of you.
It also means letting go of comparison. Your child’s path is their own. Your parenting will look different from someone else’s, and that’s okay.
What matters most is that you’re showing up. That you’re paying attention. That you’re learning how to be with your child in a way that supports both of you.
Simone Davies often reminds us that the real goal is not perfection. The real goal is to enjoy being with your toddler. To understand them. To grow together.
A Thought to Carry With You
This approach is not just about parenting techniques. It’s about becoming a more mindful, grounded, and connected human being.
You’re not just supporting your child’s development. You’re developing too. Becoming more observant. More patient. More open. And more attuned to the moments that truly matter.
This work is meaningful. And it’s worth it.
So take your time. Trust yourself. And enjoy the unfolding of your child’s unique story — one moment, one connection, one quiet success at a time.
You’re building something beautiful. Not just for your child, but for you both.
Related Topics
Prepared Environment, Parenting Styles, Emotional Development, Motor Development
Learn how to raise a smart, happy and moral child with easy-to-understand visuals
As you come to the end of this guide, it’s worth pausing for a moment.
Not to check a box or complete a task, but to reflect. Because this is not the end of something. It’s the beginning of a new way of seeing your child, your home, and even yourself.
Montessori with toddlers isn’t about doing everything right. It’s not about strict routines, special toys, or perfect spaces. It’s about connection. It’s about trust. And it’s about growing side by side.
What This Approach Offers
When you bring Montessori ideas into daily life, things begin to shift.
You start seeing your toddler as capable. You invite them to do more for themselves. You create space for them to explore what fascinates them. You let go of some control and discover that cooperation comes more easily when respect leads the way.
Over time, this way of living fosters a love of learning. It builds confidence, not because children are praised for doing things well, but because they’ve experienced the quiet pride of figuring something out on their own.
And perhaps most importantly, it strengthens the bond between you and your child. Not through constant instruction, but through shared presence.
Start Small and Give It Time
It’s tempting to want to change everything at once. But this is a path best taken one step at a time.
Maybe you start by setting up a low shelf with just a few activities. Or by inviting your child to help pour water at lunch. Or simply by sitting quietly and watching what they choose to do with an empty basket and a pile of pebbles.
Each small shift matters. And those little steps add up to big changes over time.
There will be hard days. There will be moments where you feel unsure, frustrated, or exhausted. That’s part of the process. But there will also be moments of calm, connection, and deep joy — the kind that stays with you long after your child has grown.
The Relationship Comes First
At the heart of everything is the relationship between you and your child.
Montessori isn’t about molding your toddler into something specific. It’s about seeing who they already are and helping them become more fully themselves. That requires presence. Observation. Patience. And a deep respect for the small but mighty person in front of you.
It also means letting go of comparison. Your child’s path is their own. Your parenting will look different from someone else’s, and that’s okay.
What matters most is that you’re showing up. That you’re paying attention. That you’re learning how to be with your child in a way that supports both of you.
Simone Davies often reminds us that the real goal is not perfection. The real goal is to enjoy being with your toddler. To understand them. To grow together.
A Thought to Carry With You
This approach is not just about parenting techniques. It’s about becoming a more mindful, grounded, and connected human being.
You’re not just supporting your child’s development. You’re developing too. Becoming more observant. More patient. More open. And more attuned to the moments that truly matter.
This work is meaningful. And it’s worth it.
So take your time. Trust yourself. And enjoy the unfolding of your child’s unique story — one moment, one connection, one quiet success at a time.
You’re building something beautiful. Not just for your child, but for you both.
Related Topics
Prepared Environment, Parenting Styles, Emotional Development, Motor Development
Learn how to raise a smart, happy and moral child with easy-to-understand visuals
Audio Summary
Audio Summary
Audio overviews (including the voices) are AI-generated.
Audio overviews (including the voices) are AI-generated.
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Study Guide
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Including Key Concepts, Quiz & Key Terms
Including Key Concepts, Quiz & Key Terms
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Summary
Summary
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
01
Reimagining Toddlerhood
Toddlers often act in ways that seem challenging, but these behaviors are driven by a deep need to learn and connect. The Montessori approach offers a more respectful and peaceful way to understand and support this stage of development.
02
Understanding Toddlers and Their Needs
Montessori sees toddlers as capable, self-driven learners and encourages adults to observe, slow down, and guide with care. Key ideas include the absorbent mind, sensitive periods, freedom within limits, and the importance of the adult’s self-awareness and presence.
03
Creating a Space That Supports Growth
A calm, accessible environment helps toddlers participate in daily life with confidence. This includes child-sized furniture, consistent routines, and practical setups for dressing, eating, sleeping, toileting, and hands-on learning through everyday tasks.
04
Curiosity, Cooperation, and Family Life
Toddlers learn best through exploration, choice, and involvement in family life. This chapter focuses on supporting curiosity, encouraging cooperation without bribes or threats, and building respectful communication with all caregivers.
05
Embracing the Montessori Journey
Montessori is a gradual, flexible process that deepens the parent-child relationship. Focusing on connection, presence, and mutual growth helps both parent and child thrive through everyday moments.
References
References
Davies, S. (2019). The Montessori toddler: A parent's guide to raising a curious and responsible human being. Workman Publishing Company.
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