9 things you need to create a Montessori Bedroom.
You are here because you have discovered the Montessori method, and most likely want to begin implementing it with your child’s bedroom. Chek out the list below to discover a few ways to create a Montessori bedroom. It will have all the things you need and the methodology behind each. These are the books I got most of my information from, click here for book 1 and here for book 2. They are a wonderful introduction to the Montessori method, and I highly recommend them.
A Floor bed
Moving away from cribs to a floor bed is the first thing I would recommend doing to create a Montessori bedroom. All you need to do is place a mattress, that is at least 6 inches thick, on the floor. If you live in a humid climate, I suggest finding something to place under it like wood slats, pallets, or a very low bedframe that still allows the child to crawl in and out of bed.
Quilted play mat
A designated play area for an infant that is beautiful and storable? Count me in! Perfect for use in conjunction with the full length mirror that will be mentioned later on. Pictured below is my sweet baby on our cute leaf-shaped quilted play mat during an enrichment activity.
Child sized Wardrobe
A small area to hang a few outfits (no more than 3) for the child to choose from each day. Some shirts, pants, or dresses should suffice. The Montessori method is all about independence, and presenting children with the opportunity to exercise their autonomy each and every day. This is a great example.
Small full length mirror
I love this item because it serves multiple purposes. A full length mirror can be used laid on it’s side during tummy time for an infant or vertically to help an older child, or toddler, when getting ready for the day. During tummy time it helps the infant learn more completely about the movements their bodies make. You can find a suitable mirror anywhere, like HomeGoods, so I don’t really feel like it needs a link. But if you are feeling lazy like me, here is one that I have had my eye on.
Self-Care Station
In a Montessori bedroom, a self-care station is a must. Place a small self-care station next to that full length mirror to help your little one get ready in the morning. A cute tiny stool and a basket full of get-ready essentials. For example, I place in my 2 year old daughter’s basket a hairbrush, a spray bottle, little hair ties, and some fun pretend make up. No need to spend money on any toy make up kits, just use cleaned out containers of your old make up. I used an old mascara, blush, lip gloss, and makeup brushes.
Art
This one can be free and fun for everyone involved. Frame your child’s own art, or things from nature, and hang them at the eye level of a toddler. You could also hang it with some twine and clothes pins if you have those on hand and don’t want to spend any money on picture frames. I just recently implemented this in my daughters room and she loves it! I really enjoy seeing her beam with pride as she admirers her own work.
Bookshelf
Books are so so important to a child’s development; our pediatrician is always harping on me to read read read! The best way to get yourself doing it often, and instilling that habit in your child, is to have books easily accessible. Display only a few books on the bookshelf with the cover facing outward. A bookshelf is also multipurpose and a great place to display an activity or two for your child to use when playing in their room. Pictured above is my toddler playing with her name puzzle displayed in her bedroom bookshelf.
Feeding station
A feeding station is mostly just a comfortable chair for mom to sit in while nursing or giving a bottle in the middle of the night. This allows for minimal disturbance of infant sleep. This one is not a necessity if space does not allow, and you can always lay on the floor bed with them.
Changing area
This one is a given no matter if you follow the Montessori method or not, however, the difference here is you only need a changing mat and a little place for diapers and wipes. No changing table needed, unless medically necessary for caregiver. I recently got this diaper caddy, and I loved it so much I bought a second to have in another location. One thing I love about the Montessori method is its emphasis on reducing over stimulation. This translates to decluttering and minimizing your home. So sayonara big clunky space wasting changing table, hello storable changing mat and mental clarity.
If you are interested in learning more about steps you can take to create a Montessori inspired home, check out my other blog post about 5 easy ways to create a Montessori friendly home.
