our favorite montessori inspired toys

Is the popular method of Montessori play and learning for you and your child?

The Montessori style of learning and playing has been all the rage in recent decades for young children and parents. Based on nourishing a child’s need for independence and natural interests, this method has been one I try to implement in any way I can around our home.

How we practice

We are not strictly Montessori - some people who practice this system to the point of no screens and no battery operated toys - but I do try to give Baylor toys and activities that foster curiosity and learning life skills independently. He definitely watches TV and has his share of battery operated toys but I try not to buy them when its our choice.

Why I like the approach

I like the idea behind this method - which I believe takes more of a “whole child” teaching approach, similar to I would teach in the classroom. I love that young children can be held to a high standard to problem solve on their own, but still have the support of an adult if they need it. I often find and have seen parents who think their child is not capable of things that they totally are.

“I think society also sees babies though a lens of being helpless and not capable, when in actuality, they can do a lot more than we give them credit for. ”

— Malorie Beard

When you give kids the tools and teach them skills to be successful, they will usual surprise you with their capabilities. Let your babies and kids play, fail, problem solve and figure things out. They just might surprise you!

our family’s favorite montessori toys and activities

This IKEA kitchen is minimalist in the best way! It looks nice in your home and promotes food related interests and skills surrounding the kitchen.

Melissa and Doug is an awesome company that has all kinds of wooden, Montessori inspired toys. Baylor is beyond obsessed with this set of cleaning supplies!

This amazing name puzzle was gifted to Baylor for Christmas, but they have so many similar ones on Etsy that are to DIE for. They are adorable, help teach letter and name recognition, and are cognitively challenging for your little’s brain. Here is a link for a similar one on Etsy.

These kitchen utensils and food products go perfectly with B’s play kitchen! He loves to pretend he is cooking while I am.

These puzzles are a perfect activity for your little one ages 1-3. They help teach kids about transportation and vehicles, too!

Baylor is starting to figure out how this shape sorter works and it is so exciting when he gets a match! This keeps him busy for a while and teaches shapes, colors and problem solving.

Do you and your family use any Montessori toys or activities? Comment on my latest Instagram post with more ideas or tag me if you tried any of these suggestions!