Montessori Bedroom Essentials

Floor bed

A floor bed is either a low bed or simply a mattress placed onto the floor. The mattress should be firm for many safety reasons. A soft mattress can include the risk of suﬀocation, among other dangers. Babies need a firm and flat surface to support the spine and neck and ensure maximum development.

When introducing your baby to a floor bed, it can take them some time to get used to it. Some parents allow their babies to sleep on a floor bed from the newborn stage. However, it is recommended that you keep your baby close to you at the early stages, especially if you are breastfeeding. Consider introducing your baby to a floor bed before they can crawl, as it may make the transition a little easier. The baby will be familiar with sleeping in the bed before they can crawl around and explore. Be patient, as it can take some time, but your baby will eventually get used to their sleep space, and they may even start to ask to go to bed close to bedtime.

When placing a floor bed, ensure that it is secure to the ground and does not easily move around. Either put it in the middle of the room or a corner against two walls. If you place the bed in the corner, make sure that there is no way that the child can push the mattress around. There is a risk of the child getting stuck between the bed and the wall if the mattress is easily moveable. If you are worried about your baby falling oﬀ the bed, consider using a larger mattress, placing a rug or cushions next to the bed, or using a bed rail. Ensure there is space along the bed for your baby to get out by themselves.

Low Shelf

Having a low shelf that your child can reach will allow them to access their books and toys without having to ask for help, which means that at any point, they could pick up an item and start learning. When installing the shelf, keep your child’s height in mind. The shelf should be safe, sturdy, and secure. One or two shelves will be enough, as you do not want to overcrowd the room. Include toys and books that are safe and appropriate for the children to use by themselves. Ensure that the shelf is properly secured to the wall to avoid it from tipping over and potentially causing harm to the child.

Artwork and decor

Artwork can help create a sense of calm in your child’s bedroom and help to improve visual perception and vocabulary. You can decorate the walls with your child’s favorite objects or family portraits to help the child feel close to you. Hang decor low to help the child appreciate and enjoy their environment. Ensure all artwork and wall decorations are firmly attached to the wall—even a crawling baby will attempt to pull them oﬀ. To be safe, choose frames and decorations that do not have sharp edges or corners.

Pull-up Bar and Mirror

A neat addition to the child’s bedroom, the pull-up bar is perfect for babies learning to pull themselves up. The addition of a mirror allows babies to see their movements, improve their perception, and gives them an open perspective of their room. Babies are intrigued by themselves and enjoy looking in the mirror. Ensure to fasten the pull-up bar to the wall securely and at the appropriate height.

Top Tips

You can apply Montessori methods to all rooms that your child spends time in, including their bedroom, nursery, and playroom. A Montessori environment provides your child with the required setting for Montessori learning and development. Remember, all children and families are diﬀerent, so always find what works best for you, your baby, and your family as a whole. Here are some tips to help your baby sleep better in a Montessori bedroom:

Consider waiting until your baby has a sleep routine and is used to sleeping through the night before introducing them to a floor bed. Otherwise, you will have the challenge of getting them used to the floor bed at the same time as getting them into a sleep routine. The floor bed may not work for all children, especially those that struggle to sleep through the night.

If your child frequently wakes up throughout the night or is highly energetic, they may find comfort from nearby books and toys and eventually settle down and go back to sleep. Alternatively, having books and toys nearby could distract the child and stop them from getting the rest that they need. It all depends on your child’s personality and temperament. Observe your child's behavior and determine what will work best for them.

Floor beds do not work for all children. Depending on their age and level of development, your child may not understand communication, so they may not respond to your directions, like asking them to stay in bed or telling them that it is time to go to bed. If you feel that your child is not ready for a floor bed, consider waiting until they are old enough to understand your instructions.

Getting your baby into a routine and implementing good sleep habits is more important than getting them to sleep on a floor bed. If your baby is struggling to sleep through the night or is not getting enough sleep, it may be a good idea to keep them in a crib until they are a little older. You know your child best, and if you do not think your baby is ready to benefit from a floor bed, consider waiting until they are more developed.

You may still prefer for your baby to sleep on a floor bed rather than a crib. Stay calm and practice patience with your child as they get used to their new environment. It can take time, but with consistency, your child will eventually adapt and settle into a healthy sleep routine.