Creating a Montessori Haven at Home
A Space for Growth and Discovery
Dear Guardians of Tomorrow's Heroes,
A Montessori home is thoughtfully designed with children’s needs and interests in mind. It can exist in any size, shape, or location. My grandmother’s ancestral home, old and rickety as it was, embodied this spirit. It was a space for safe exploration and endless discovery—a true Casa de Bambini.
You don’t need a large home or a sophisticated interior design to create this environment. In fact, simplicity often makes for a more conducive learning space, especially for younger children.
When I had my first baby, I worried about providing the ideal environment. I’d read so much about how important a home can be in supporting a child’s growth, and I wanted to give my child the best possible start. My little townhouse with its cemented backyard seemed inadequate.
However, with a touch of creativity and the guidance of Montessori principles, I realized I could still create a nurturing space. The key was staying attuned to my child’s needs and adjusting our home accordingly.
Twin Sparks of Inspiration
· Guiding Words from Maria Montessori
“When we speak of “environment” we include the sum total of objects which a child can freely choose and use as (they) please… according to (their) needs and tendencies.”
· Inspirational Echoes from the World
“And then I realized adventures are the best way to learn.” - Anonymous
Parenting Pearls
Gem #1: The Sensitive Period
Dr. Montessori believed that children go through “Sensitive Periods,” optimal times for learning specific skills. During these phases, children are instinctively drawn to particular activities. They learn skills like speaking and walking when they’re ready, without any coaching from us. Parents don’t teach their child to speak—they simply talk, and the child imitates.
The same principle applies to reading, writing, and math. Since we can’t predict exactly when these Sensitive Periods will occur, it’s essential to prepare the environment so that when the time comes, everything the child needs to explore these skills is readily available.
Gem #2: The Prepared Environment
Montessori emphasizes the importance of a prepared environment—one where children can explore freely and learn at their own pace. This environment should cater to their developmental needs, allowing for optimal growth.
Dr. Montessori described the Prepared Environment as a harmony between three essential elements: the child, the parent (or teacher), and the physical space (home or classroom). These elements work together to create a setting where your child can thrive, fostering independence and curiosity.
Gem #3: An Innate Tendency to Explore
Children have a natural desire to explore the world through their senses. They touch, smell, taste, and peer at everything around them. It’s through these sensory interactions that they learn about the world.
As parents, it can be nerve-wracking to watch them try (and taste!) everything. But encouraging exploration, rather than restricting it, is crucial. This is how they begin to understand the vast world they’re a part of.
Reflect and Respond: Your Turn to Shine
· How can you adapt your home to make it a sanctuary for learning and discovery?
· What items can you add or remove to enhance your child’s ability to explore?
· How might you create an environment that aligns with your child’s natural curiosity and unique needs?
Together in your journey,
Susie
Susie Antonia, is the author of The Montessori Advantage. She is an educator with rich experiences from Canada, England, and the Philippines, who believes children are our future heroes. With decades steeped in the Montessori teaching method, she offers a wealth of practical parenting tips and heartwarming stories from the classroom.
Whether you're a parent navigating the maze of modern upbringing or an educator seeking a kindred spirit, you've found your tribe. Join Susie for an enriching experience that's as educational as it is inspiring.