Practical Montessori for the Home
Allison Mattingly Mother of Sadie (5) and Drew (3)
How I fell in love with Montessori
Independence
KitchenSet-Up: • All kid’s plates, cups,
and bowls are placed in a low cabinet.
• One drawer designated for kid’s eating and cooking utensils.
• Snacks and other frequently eaten foods on a low shelf in the pantry.
• Pitchers of milk and other cold snacks and food on low shelf.
• Sturdy, moveable stool
KitchenMy 3 and 5 year olds are expected to…• Pack your own lunch.• Get your own snacks
during approved times.• Set your own place
setting on the table for each meal.
• Clean up after yourself after each meal and snack
• Empty your dishes from the dishwasher daily.
What they like to do in the kitchen…• Help Mom and Dad cook!
BathroomSet Up: • Sturdy Stool• Low Hooks for towels• Timer for teeth-brushing• Flushable wet wipes• Shower Attachment
(optional)Expectations: • Brush own teeth• Complete toileting by
self• Shower independently
BedroomSet-Up: • Accessible clothing
storage. • Hamper for dirty
clothes• Logical organization of
toys and books. (this is always a work in progress)
Expectations: • Dress and undress self. • Clean room before
bedtime.
Practical Life
Community Contribution versus Chores
Contributions:
• Self Care• Emptying Dishwasher
of your dishes• Do your own laundry• If you make a mess,
clean it up.
Other Montessori Ideas to Bring Home
Peace Journal A reflection activity
after making poor choices. Recommended for children 4 and up.
Montessori Language• Work
• Alternative to toys and activities. Good for use when I want them to play alone.
• Closed• Ex. “The TV is closed
because it is a school day.”
• Restore• Ex. “Please restore your
work before you may have snack”
• Directed Choice• 2 equally acceptable
choices
Resources
The Blog!Whiningisclosed.wordpress.comEmail [email protected] that Inspire: Kids in the KitchenBy: Sara Cotner and Kylie D’AltonHow to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori WayBy: Tom Selton