The Montessori method at home: how to put it into practice from the age of one without overcomplicating things

You’ve probably seen it on Instagram: wooden rooms, neutral-coloured toys, low shelves. But the Montessori method at home isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a way of understanding how your baby learns. And the best thing is, you can start today, with what you already have.

In this guide, we explain what Montessori is really all about, how to adapt the environment to suit your child’s age, and which materials make a difference – without having to redecorate the living room or break the bank.

What exactly is the Montessori method? (and what it is NOT)

The Montessori method is not a list of wooden toys or a Pinterest board. It is an educational philosophy developed by Maria Montessori that stems from a simple observation: children learn best when they are given the space to explore, make mistakes and discover things for themselves.

What Montessori is: respecting the child’s own pace, providing an orderly environment and age-appropriate materials, and giving them real autonomy in the little things of everyday life.

What Montessori isn’t: banning plastic toys, following rigid rules or spending a fortune. It can be put into practice using everyday household items, a reorganised space and plenty of observation.

The prepared environment: the first step that makes all the difference in the Montessori method

In Montessori, the home is the first classroom. There’s no need for a dedicated room: all you need to do is make a few small adjustments to the space where the baby spends most of their time.

Height and accessibility: the baby calls the shots

Everything the child uses should be within their reach: toys on a low shelf, books displayed face-out, and materials organised so they are clearly visible. If they have to ask for help to reach something, we miss out on the opportunity for them to be independent.

Order and rotation of materials

Less is more. Montessori recommends keeping only a few materials on display and rotating them every week or two. This way, the baby does not become overwhelmed, maintains their interest and returns to the toys with fresh eyes. A box that has been put away for two weeks becomes exciting all over again.

Which toys to choose (and which to avoid) depending on age

The golden rule is that the toy should help develop at least one specific skill: fine motor skills, coordination, cause and effect, or concentration. And it should be the baby who drives the action, not the toy.

0 to 6 months: sensory stimulation

Black-and-white mobiles, lightweight wooden rattles, fabrics of different textures. The aim is to awaken the senses without overstimulating the baby.

6 to 12 months: exploration and movement

Movement takes centre stage. A wooden Montessori baby walker supports those first steps whilst the baby explores the toys on the front panel. An XXL play mat for safe play on the floor, where they can crawl and explore to their heart’s content with other toys.

Ages 1 to 3: independence and symbolic play

From the age of one, children want to imitate adults and explore using their hands. A Montessori cube that combines shape-sorting, mazes and a variety of activities keeps them focused for a surprisingly long time. And the learning tower allows them to climb onto the kitchen worktop, wash up, knead dough and get involved — real independence in everyday life.

How to incorporate Montessori into everyday routines

The Montessori approach isn’t limited to playtime. It’s present in the bathroom (letting them pick up their own towel, choose between two pairs of pyjamas), in the kitchen (letting them pour their own water, put fruit into the bowl) and at bath time (letting them take part in their hygiene routine).

A product such as a foldable bath makes bath time a safe and fun opportunity for exploring water.

Small opportunities for independence every day build great confidence in the long term. Not every moment needs to be educational: just let them get on with it.

Frequently asked questions about the Montessori method at home

At what age can you start Montessori at home?

From birth. The principles of observing the baby, respecting their pace and providing a safe environment apply from the very first days.

Do you need to buy specific materials?

Not necessarily. Many Montessori materials can be made at home (exploration baskets, fabrics, everyday objects). Specific wooden toys are most beneficial when they are designed to provide a particular challenge appropriate to the child’s age.

Is Montessori compatible with attending a conventional nursery?

Absolutely. Montessori at home is an approach for the home, not an exclusive ideology. What you do at home complements any educational setting.

What is the difference between a Montessori baby walker and a traditional one?

The Montessori baby walker supports independent movement from behind — the baby pushes and controls their own pace — whilst the traditional baby walker supports them from within, limiting natural postural development.

Do Montessori toys have to be made of wood?

It is not the material that exclusively defines a Montessori toy, but its purpose. However, wood generally offers better weight, texture and durability for very young children, as well as being a more natural material.