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How to Make a Montessori Space

Montessori spaces are designated activity areas that are utilized by teachers, homeschool instructors and families who want to provide a learning-friendly atmosphere for their children. The Montessori space garners its name from Dr. Maria Montessori, whose educational theory states that in order to learn, children need an organized and prepared environment. Kids of all ages can benefit; however, these areas are typically geared toward preschool-, kindergarten- and elementary-aged children. The space can be small or large, providing a place for kids to work independently. You make your very own Montessori space in your home by providing an organized, accessible simple space that is fun and inviting.

Things You'll Need

  • Low-sitting bookcase
  • Multiple baskets
  • Pencil cups
  • Educational toys and games
  • Age-appropriate books
  • Hooks
  • Kid-sized smock
  • Kid-sized apron
  • Small table
  • 4 Small chairs
  • Plants
  • Silk flowers
  • Plastic vase
  • Radio/CD or MP3 player
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Instructions

  1. Creating a Montessori Space

    • 1

      Designate a corner in your kitchen, living room, family room or dining room to use as a Montessori space. This area can be small or large, depending on the kind of Montessori space you want to create.

    • 2

      Remove any clutter, knick-knacks or furniture from the designated corner. This space should be open, free and designated specifically as a learning and activity area for your child.

    • 3

      Place a low-sitting bookcase against the wall in your designated Montessori space. This bookcase should sit low enough so your child will not have trouble removing and replacing things on the highest shelf. If you prefer, you can also attach a shelving unit to the wall in place of a bookcase.

    • 4

      Stock the shelves of the bookcase with educational toys, games, books and art supplies. All materials on the shelves should be age-appropriate and interesting to your child. Organize these items by category and subject. Place items with multiple pieces in baskets and place pencils, paintbrushes and art supplies in pencil cups.

    • 5

      Attach hooks to the wall in a low-lying place that kids can reach. From these hooks, hang a kid-sized smock and apron so children can protect their clothes should you decide to implement any potentially messy art or cooking activities.

    • 6

      Place a small, kid-sized table and chairs at the center of the Montessori space. A small table and chairs will provide a comfortable space for your child to sit and work independently.

    • 7

      Bring aesthetic value to your child’s Montessori space by adding plants on the top shelf of the bookcase. Place silk flowers in a plastic vase on the table. Give your child the ability to listen to music in their Montessori space by placing an easy-to-use radio, CD or MP3 player on or near the bookcase in an accessible area.

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