From the moment your child is born, they’re getting their hands on everything! And one of the earliest things they’ll be exploring is their environment – including their toys.
While there’s no one right way to raise your child, Montessori methods are a great way to help them learn and develop skills in a fun and stimulating way. So what are some of the benefits of using Montessori toys? Read on to find out!
What is Montessori?
Montessori is a globally acclaimed educational system that emphasizes hands-on learning. Their philosophy holds that children learn best when they have control over their environment.
This system uses specially designed materials and tools to encourage independence and creativity in children. Children are typically engaged in a variety of activities, including making things, exploring their surroundings, and practicing math and reading skills.
These toys are very popular in countries such as the United States, Canada, Ireland, and Italy.
The Basics of Montessori Toys
When it comes to choosing the right toy for your child, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. That’s why we’re introducing you to the Montessori method, which stresses individualized learning and encourages creativity and exploration. Here are five things every parent should know about Montessori toys:
- Montessori toys are designed to encourage creativity and exploration.
- They’re designed to help your child learn by doing – instead of just being told what to do.
- They’re made from natural materials, so they’re environmentally friendly.
- They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so there’s sure to be something for every child.
- And last but not least, they’re affordable – so you can get as many as you need without breaking the bank.
Benefits of Montessori Toys
The benefits of using Montessori-based toys for children are many. These toys allow children to develop their mental and physical abilities in a stimulating and fun way. They help children learn problem-solving, creativity, and organizational skills. Additionally, they help improve language development and cognitive function. Overall, these toys provide a well-rounded educational experience for children.
What to Look for in Montessori Toys
When selecting Montessori-based toys, be sure to consider the following:
- Appropriate Age – Some of the toys are appropriate for younger children, while others are better for older ones. Make sure to read the product descriptions carefully to find out which age range it is best suited for.
- Material – Most toys are made from wood, plastic, or metal. Materials vary depending on the toy’s purpose, but all of them are durable and safe.
- Size and Shape – Montessori-based toys come in many different shapes and sizes, so find one that will fit your child’s interests and abilities.
- Functionality – Some of the toys have specific functions (e.g., playing music), while others are more general (e.g., teaching counting). Be sure to research each toy before purchasing it to make sure it is suitable for your child’s needs.
What Every Parent Should Know
Parents should use Montessori-based toys when their children are ready to work on their own and have some independence. Toys that require adult supervision, such as cars and trains, should not be used until a child is at least two years old.
Some parents choose to use Montessori-based toys from birth, while others wait until their child is a bit older. Ultimately, it is up to the parents to decide when their child is ready for Montessori-based toys.
Montessori Toys For Toddlers with ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorders
Montessori toys are not just for every kid as they have an excellent educational effect and are a big part of children’s development. They can also be used by toddlers with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders to help them learn essential skills like motor planning and problem-solving.
These toys are recommended for children between the ages of 18 months to 6 years old, but many parents have found that their kids love these toys even when they get older.
Montessori Toys for Toddlers With ADHD or Autism Spectrum Disorders
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- The Vibrating Rocker – This is a very simple rocker that has three gently vibrating metal bars that sit on top of the rocker. The metal bars are designed to stimulate the child’s sense of touch and proprioception. In other words, this toy will help with motor planning, balance, and perception while also developing sensory awareness in children.
- The Clacking Teething Toy – This is a simple toy that has a few different pieces of wood where each has one end with a magnet and the other end with a plastic top. When the child shakes it, the ends make different clacks or rattles depending on which piece is being shaken. It is also durable enough for children to chew on without worrying about it breaking.
- The Folding Magnet BoardThis is a great toy if you have a baby that is struggling to find something interesting to put in their mouth because it has magnets on the surface of the board that can be chewed on, crinkle, and unfold without the worry of them swallowing pieces.
- The Wooden BlocksBoardThis wooden board can be pulled apart into separate shapes, making it a good toy for toddlers and older children who want to stack different objects on top of each other and build.
- The Connect The Dots BoardThis is a great toy that’s easy to clean up and store because kids can connect the dots with their fingers or pencils, making this a great activity for all ages.
Conclusion
Montessori education has been shown to improve academic skills and creativity, both of which are essential in becoming a successful adult. In addition, these toys allow children to develop motor skills while having fun.
As a parent, it is important to be knowledgeable about the types of toys that will help your child thrive and develop at their own pace. This knowledge can come from reading reviews or talking to other parents who have used the same type of toy with their children.