In a Montessori environment we want to provide a child with the opportunity to participate in practical tasks as much as possible. Dressing is included in this area. But, in order for that to be successful the environment has to be prepared for success. This often means only have a limited amount of clothes available for a child at any given time. I've found that using a capsule wardrobe with my older kids help to meet this need in our environment.
For many babies the opportunity to actively engage in the dressing process is one of the first practical life experiences they will do. So, to me it makes sense to offer a limited number of choices to babies as well. Plus, it saves money and hassle and all those other great things about a capsule wardrobe. For these reason, I decided that we would use a capsule with Theodore from birth. With the older kids, I wasn't all that intentional about the number of clothes we had. Many of their clothes were only worn a couple times before they were outgrown.
It's been very different with Teddy. And, honestly, it's been great. I don't have a dresser that is overflowing with clothes for him that he will barely wear. The clothes mostly coordinate so that if he spits up on his shirt, and his pants are still clean, I can just change his shirt and avoid extra laundry. The older kids can pick outfits for him that mix and match. I have loved it.
I put together a little newborn (birth to 6 months) capsule wardrobe planner for you, if you are interested. I did this based on our experience with Teddy. Now, if you have a super spitty baby, you may need more. If you don't like nightgowns, then replace those with something you do use. I also just used the language "seasonally appropriate" instead of long sleeve or short, fill in based on your weather. I also only included separates, again, thats a personal choice, replace a top + bottom for every one piece outfit you choose.
This only includes little babies because I'm assuming I'll need a little more for a baby learning to eat. In my experience they tend to go through a few month clothes at that age. I'll keep you updated as Teddy reaches that point.
Planning a newborn capsule wardrobe
Choose clothes that coordinate. You want things that are going to match so you can make multiple combinations with a smaller amount of clothes.
Respect freedom of movement. Choose clothes that your baby can move in. There are so many cute outfits out there but we want thing that feel good, and let your baby roll, wiggle, and stretch.
Be flexible for your situation. If you want/need more or less, go for it! This is just a guide of what works for us.
Have you done a capsule wardrobe for your baby?
This post is week 8 of my Montessori Baby Series focusing on Teddy.
