What is a Montessori Playroom?
The Montessori environment is an essential aspect of Montessori education, as it is the environment that supports concentration and independence. There are no fancy features or attributes in a Montessori playroom. Instead, the room is simple, clean, and tidy, with a dedicated space for every item and material. The room is spacious and not overcrowded or inundated with toys. All items and materials are displayed to allow children to reach them independently, without help from an adult. Children will learn where each item belongs, picking them up and then putting them back when finished playing. The atmosphere is warm, friendly, and welcoming, and respect for the environment is encouraged. There are various engaging activities and toys available to the children.
Having a limited amount of toys and activities will allow the children to maintain their attention, rather than jumping from one to the other. When the children are presented with a wide range of activities and materials, they can find it hard to concentrate on a single action. They lose focus and become distracted by other options available to them. In Montessori, between eight and ten activities are recommended to be exposed to the child at one time. If you have more than ten toys, you can rotate them as your child develops. Switch up the toys and activities according to the child’s interests and abilities. If a child is working with one material or activity for a long time, they will eventually absorb all of the information. They will then naturally move on to something more challenging or exciting.
When presenting toys and materials in the playroom, make sure they are visible to the children and stored at the appropriate height. Children will find it harder to choose an
activity if it is out of reach; for example, toys put away in a cupboard do not promote engagement as your child has to work to find something before they can start playing. If there is a dedicated space for each material, the child will find it a lot easier to get into a routine of tidying up after themselves. Children will feel a sense of satisfaction and independence from placing their toys back where they belong before moving on to the next activity.
When creating a Montessori playroom, try to keep it clear of obstruction and provide an open space. Children benefit from an open space as they have the freedom to move around and use the area for skill-building activities. It’s an excellent opportunity for the children to refine their gross motor skills, as you can create a setup that allows your child to move around, climb, and explore within an open and freeing environment. Having an open space will prevent accidents and allow your child to move around without difficulty.
The Montessori playroom is a neat and tidy environment, where all items are placed strategically. There is a place for each subject or theme, making it easier for children to find everything. It is best not to constantly rearrange the room, as the children will get used to where everything belongs and will be able to pick up where they left off. Demonstrate how to pick items up and put them back, and explain to the children how it would benefit them if they did the same. The children will find satisfaction from placing items back in their dedicated space. Naturally, the children will start to tidy up after themselves without being asked.
There is a difference between toys that entertain and toys that educate. For example, battery-operated toys that light up and make noise will keep your child entertained but will not provide any motivation. Toys that present challenges will help your child to concentrate and develop their motor skills. Allow your child to engage in toys and activities that serve a purpose.
Providing a warm, cozy, and friendly setting in the playroom will allow the child to feel safe and comfortable as they learn. Design the playroom to suit your home, and make the space fun and appealing so that the child enjoys being there.