The Montessori bedoom

There are many parents that wish to introduce the Montessori method to their home and they wonder how they can set up a Montessori bedroom for their kids. Below you will find the information needed to get you started.

The Montessori method

The Montessori method is a method developed by the Italian doctor and educator Maria Montessori (1870- 1952) after many years of study and observation. The method promotes the independent development of kids. They have the oppourtunity to move and act in a prepared environment based on their own free will and interests.

The Montessori bedroom characteristics

The bedroom is minimal without clutter and unnecessary objects. Unhindered movement within the room and easy access to all furniture are essential. It is also important that the room has plenty of natural light. There is a sense of calmness and harmony.

The Montessori furniture

There are not specific or certified Montessori furniture, but furniture that follow the Montessori method guidelines meaning they have the adequate size and easy for a kid to use concept and design. No adult help is needed. They are mostly constructed by natural materials such as wood and sometimes bamboo.

Below you can find all the necessary furniture:

Bed

The Montessori bed must be low in height so the kid, regardless the age, can get on and off it at any time. Especially beds designed for younger toddlers, may have protective sides with an opening to help kid access. The simplest bed you can find is one having a floor base and a mattress. Many companies offer a wide range of design options to upgrade the bed.

TIP: Avoid placing a sole mattress on the floor so you can keep away dust and have a clean bed for your kid.

Wardrobe: A Montessori wardrobe is an open furniture with shelves ana a bar for hanging clothes. It is a low furniture that allows easy access to kids.

Mirror: You shouldn’t worry about your kid having an accident and being hurt because these mirrors are acrylic and shutter- proof The mirror used for infants and young toddlers usually has a bar that allows them to stand up and learn new movements. It is usually placed horizontally on the floor. A vertical mirror helps older kids get dressed and develop coordination.

Shelves: cubic furniture with shelves are the best way for the kid to pick a toy or object and then place it back easily and on its own.

Other furnoture that can be added in the bedroom:

Book display: there are no libraries in a Montessori bedroom but bok displays where book are positioned in such a way that the kid can pick by the cover of the book. Another option are wall display shelves.

Low table and chair: A low table along with a matching low sized chair is a favourite spot where children can play, explore and learn through activities.

Wall decor: Because the Montessori method encourages the use of real life objects you can place real animal photos for the kid to explore.

How much do Montessori furniture cost?

The answer to this question is simple: what goes for all kid’s furniture goes for Montessori furniture as well. Prices may vary according to manufacturer, supplier or materials. There is no need to look for a Montessori brand or description, but for kid friendly, down sized, easy to use furnture as well as the quality of construction and materials.

In a glance:

• minimal space
• natural materials
• natural light
• easy to move
• kid sized
• easily accessible

TIP: if you really want the bedroom to look down- sized, divide the wall horizontally in half and paint the lower part using a colour of your choice and the upper part white.