There is a pull to purchase new items when it comes to the school room. But I am going to challenge you to stay home. Don’t even think about walking over to your computer to jump on Amazon or Oriental Trading. Your only task after reading this blog post is to create a simple learning moment that is relevant to your child.
Your child.
Not mine. Or your neighbor’s. Or Sally’s son who goes to pre-school.
If you think that you need a bunch of fantastic, bright, wood toys for your Genius, STOP. Your Genius needs your 100% attention and doesn’t need to be dragged to the store for a bunch of items from the same category or stare at a mom zoning at the computer screen.
Today’s task? Create a Montessori Moment at Home. Each time you see this feature, we will focus on an idea found in John Bowman’s book, Montessori at Home!
Now there are two ways you can accomplish this next task,
- You can purchase and download the book Montessori at Home! Glance at the Practical Life and Sensorial sections for ideas. or
- Brainstorm ideas that would nurture an interest your child already has that would enhance and build upon their current abilities.
For example, Naomi (my 1 year old) has been feeding herself with her hands for several months. Seeing as though she is nearing her 1/2 birthday, I decided that it was time she begin to work on using the proper utensils, such as a spoon. I gathered multiple sizes and colors of spoons, in addition to a variety of bowls, a plate, a cup, and a napkin.
To do what is referred to as an “activity cycle,” it is recommended to have a floor rug or table mat that your child works on. Instantly, my imagination began sewing this beautiful, brightly colored blanket for Miss Naomi to reside upon for our Montessori Moments. Then I discovered that a busy rug or mat will actually serve as a distraction. So, here are some parameters for you:
- a good size of rug or blanket is 2 x 3’
- stick with something that has a short nap
- find a mat that is a solid, light color (beige, green, or gray)
- non-skid shelf lining works well
- carpet samples
Because I lacked the majority of these items, I had Naomi sit on our wood floor with all other objects removed but what we were working on.
Next time, I hope to begin the “activity cycle” more like Bowman’s suggestion in his book, involving my children more:
- Create a work space. Get out a rug, blanket, or table mat.
- Unveil the activity by bringing it to the workspace. (You will probably see a lot of our activities on trays.)
- Encourage YOUR child to clean up and place the activity where it should be stored.
- Put the rug away.
Your child will become used to the habit and know what to expect each time.
What are you waiting for? Go and have a Montessori Moment at Home with your Little!
, then we each got a cup of M&M’s. 
All printables for this unit can be downloaded for free on my website, 
