Between the ages of birth and 3, Maria Montessori identified children as having an unconscious absorbent mind. It's a fancy way of saying that children in this age group absorb everything around them effortlessly. Everything they see, touch, taste, hear, and experience is absorbed into their souls, shaping the adult they will eventually become. These influences are most prominent from two sources - the adult, and the environment.
{Gus plays with the fraction puzzle from Monti Kids Level 8}
Woah, pressure! Even just typing that all out, I can feel my blood pressure starting to rise wondering if I have done everything I need to for my babies and toddlers. If you feel those feelings of dread, there is some good news - babies and toddlers are inherently wired to explore and gather what they need from their environment. Their development is going to march on with or without us.
{Gus using the Baking Set from Monti Kids Level 7}
The other good news is that we have a lot of resources that can make this Montessori parenting gig a whole lot easier. One, we have Monti Kids. If you haven't used Monti Kids yet, it is a full service Montessori subscription service for parents and teachers. Every few months, Monti Kids can send you beautiful, developmentally appropriate Montessori materials for your baby or toddler. These are perfect to create the environment that your child needs to meet his/her developmental needs.
{Gus uses The Peg Board from Monti Kids Level 8}
I've had the pleasure of using some Monti Kids materials with Gus and have been impressed with the quality and scope. The materials have been challenging and engaging, while still so beautiful. I really like that each material is complete - it comes with the tray, supplies and storage containers - and very little work to create.
We have used Monti Kids here and there over the last year and it's been a great way to introduce a new skill or interest to Gus. While the materials are definitely complete enough to be the only toys a child has, they have also been a great compliment to the Montessori friendly toys that we have already invested in.
{Gus uses a mystery bag from Monti Kids Level 8}
If you're feeling the pressure to create the perfect Montessori environment remember that Montessori goes far beyond the materials. Our children are perfect, complete, amazing humans no matter what we do. But, if you're looking for some help, Monti Kids can be a great place to start.
{Gus uses the Bead Stringing Set from Monti Kids Level 6}
If you are interested in Monti Kids but haven't had the chance to try it yet, I have a special offer just for The Kavanaugh Report readers - use code NICOLE45 for $45 off your first order! This code is good from now until July 31, 2019 at 11:59 p.m. CST.
This post is sponsored by Monti Kids and materials have been given to Gus c/o of Monti Kids. However, all opinions expressed here are my own.
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