10 items to turn any space into a Montessori-inspired playroom

Lovevery block set

Of course once you’ve set up the space, you’ll need to select the toys! You do not need to feel limited to Montessori-specific toys, but there are a few guidelines you can follow if you want to keep the space Montessori-focused. Montessori-style toys are generally simple, high-quality, frequently made of natural materials (think wood over plastic, when possible), and often allow for creativity and open-ended use. A great place to start is blocks of all kinds.

Lorena Canals cotton storage basket

While you won’t find big bins of toys in a Montessori playroom, you will see little baskets to keep things organized. You might use a basket to hold an assortment of realistic animals or a set of puzzle pieces, or you might use a tray to hold bead stringing or the pieces from a rainbow stacker. This helps the child easily choose and put away their own work.

The Letters NYC art print

Instead of cartoonish pictures (as cute as they may be!), try hanging photographs from nature or prints of paintings from artists you admire. (Or, if you can’t choose just one, this ABC print is loaded with fun contemporary art references to give kids a jumpstart on learning!) Hanging photos from a family trip or prints from an art exhibit you’ve attended together is a great way to make it more meaningful.

ECR4Kids 2-shelf storage cabinet

One thing you’ll notice right away in a Montessori space is that all of the furniture is designed for children. Having the materials easily accessible on a low shelf means that children can be independent in choosing what to work with.

Montessori-style shelves are also relatively bare—they do not have bins full of mixed toys and materials, rather a space for each item. This means you won’t have as many materials out in a Montessori playroom, but you can rotate them instead, switching out the materials as your child’s interests shift. This keeps the clutter away and also keeps children curious and engaged!

Mkono ceramic hanging planter

Montessori spaces almost always have plants , and sometimes pet animals too!Bringing living things into the space invites children’s curiosity about the natural world and also gives them something to take care of, which is great for a sense of confidence and responsibility. Be sure to provide a small watering can so your child can help care for the plants.

The Articulate Gallery picture frame

You can also let your child choose some of their favorite artwork they’ve created and frame it on the wall; this frame makes it super easy to switch out the art.

For a Montessori-style space, make sure to hang the pictures at your child’s eye level, rather than an adult’s. This is a small thing, but makes a big difference in how much your child actually notices and appreciates the art.

Mkono hanging pendant light

Natural light is best, but you can’t always control that, so include as much soft light as you can. You can use hanging lanterns to soften the light for your child. Little touches like this can really make a big difference in creating a space where your child feels comfortable and can focus.

Constructive Playthings light table

A light table is a wonderful way to extend a child’s interest in a variety of things. It is great for looking at things like leaves and flowers they’ve found outside in a new way, but it’s also a super fun way to explore Magnatiles. Children can also use light tables for tracing if they’re interested.

Arkmiido kids swing

One of the hallmarks of Montessori is the encouragement of movement. Children are active learners and explorers and they need to move a lot. Including an indoor swin g in the space will give your child an appropriate outlet for all of their physical energy so they’re less likely to be climbing the furniture!

Kmeivol dust pan + brush

Including an art space in your child’s Montessori playroom is a great way to encourage their creativity and fine motor skills and a great way to contain the mess to one room. Just make sure to provide the tools they’ll need to clean up messes, like a small broom.