Montessori Toys and Tools

If you've read some of my past posts, you know that I'm really interested in the Montessori method of teaching children.  I'm also equally intrigued with Ms. Montessori's ideas on play, toys, and the way to lay out a child's room to best benefit his/her growing mind.

Recently, I found a really cool site called The Montessori Outlet.  I haven't even had a chance to fully peruse the site yet, but it seems to have TONS of cool toys and tools that could work in a classroom setting as well as a child's space in the home.

Mr. C and I have contemplated creating a Montessori-style bedroom for our little one(s); and while some of the ideas are not for us (the mattress on the floor for a bed kind of freaks me out, not gonna lie!), I agree with many of the ideas and concepts.

One of my favorite things about Montessori nurseries and bedrooms is the emphasis on making the child accountable and independent.  Hooks, shelves, and bins are placed at child-friendly heights to encourage children to get things for themselves and also to put them back when they're done - no excuses.

I also like that most (if not all) of the items are natural and non-fussy.  The concept behind this kind of play and learning seems to focus on simpler, basic forms that lead to a base understanding of the world that can be applied to more complex tasks later on.  I like this.  I also like that each child's individual learning process and skill sets are cherished and uplifted and then applied to the tasks and subjects that are not as easy.  I sure wish my teachers would have used this process when teaching me math!

Anyway, I thought I'd share with you some of the cool stuff I found on the aforementioned site!

Welcome cubbies  like this one would be really cool to hang coats and store messier toys.

I flat-out guarantee you that I would have LOVED this dress-up unit when I was a kid!  My sisters and I played dress-up nearly every day; no wonder I was drawn to performing! :-)

This mini art island with easel trays is so cool!  I think it's so important to encourage children to love art and to create it; it can be incredibly therapeutic too!

This classic learning toy is a must-have!  A great way to teach colors, grouping, and dexterity in wee ones!

I could post pictures all day of cool Montessori finds, but honestly I've got a headache right now and just don't feel like it. :-(  I am curious to know, though, if you're thinking of incorporating Montessori style or methods into your child's bedroom or life?  Like I said, we probably won't conform to every, little detail or ideal; but we will likely try to abide by some of it.

Off to down some Tylenol,
*mandie*