Making Montessori Magic at Home

By Morah Jessica Wheeler, Darling Ducklings

Montessori at Home for Toddlers: Simple Ways to Encourage Independence & Learning

Bringing Montessori into your home doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about setting up a space where your toddler can explore, learn, and gain independence in a natural, hands-on way. The goal is to nurture their curiosity while helping them develop important life skills.

Here are some easy ways to incorporate Montessori principles at home:

1. Set Up a Kid-Friendly Space

Make things easy for your little one to access! Use low shelves, small furniture, and open baskets for toys so they can grab what they need and put things away on their own. Keep the space simple and uncluttered, and rotate toys and materials every so often to keep things fresh and exciting.

2. Teach Practical Life Skills

Toddlers love being helpful! Let them practice simple everyday tasks like pouring water, sweeping, or buttoning their own shirt. Small chores—like folding washcloths, putting laundry in a basket, or handing out napkins at mealtime—make them feel involved and capable.

3. Hands-On Learning

Montessori is all about learning by doing. Provide toys and materials that encourage hands-on exploration—think building blocks, puzzles, or sorting activities with different colors and shapes. Sensory play (like rice bins, water play, or feeling different textures) is also a great way to engage their curiosity.

4. Encourage Independence

Give your toddler choices! Let them pick which book to read, what color shirt to wear, or which snack they’d like. Even if things get messy or take a little longer, allowing them to try things on their own builds confidence and problem-solving skills.

5. Respect Their Pace

Every child learns in their own way and on their own timeline. Instead of rushing or correcting, observe what interests them and let them explore at their own speed. Offer support when needed, but try not to interrupt their focus.

6. Keep a Consistent Routine

Toddlers thrive on predictability. Keeping a steady routine for meals, naps, playtime, and chores helps them feel safe and know what to expect. Simple rhythms make daily life smoother for everyone.

7. Encourage Movement

Let them climb, jump, and move! A safe space for crawling, dancing, or pushing a cart helps build coordination and confidence. Simple activities like balancing on a low beam or playing outside strengthen their gross motor skills.

8. Get Outside!

Nature is a big part of Montessori learning. Whether it’s watering plants, picking flowers, or just watching bugs, outdoor time sparks curiosity and helps kids connect with the world around them.

By making a few small changes, you can create a Montessori-inspired home that encourages independence, exploration, and a love of learning. And the best part? It’s all about working with your toddler’s natural instincts—no fancy materials required!