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PARENTING
Creating a Montessori Haven at Home
A Space for Growth and Discovery
A Montessori home is thoughtfully designed with children’s needs and interests in mind. It can exist in any size, shape, or location. My grandmother’s ancestral home, old and rickety as it was, embodied this spirit. It was a space for safe exploration and endless discovery — a true Casa de Bambini.
“When we speak of “environment” we include the sum total of objects which a child can freely choose and use as (they) please… according to (their) needs and tendencies.” -Maria Montessori
You don’t need a large home or a sophisticated interior design to create this environment. In fact, simplicity often makes for a more conducive learning space, especially for younger children.
When I had my first baby, I worried about providing the ideal environment. I’d read so much about how important a home can be in supporting a child’s growth, and I wanted to give my child the best possible start. My little townhouse with its cemented backyard seemed inadequate.
However, with a touch of creativity and the guidance of Montessori principles, I realized I could still create a nurturing space. The key was staying attuned to my child’s needs and adjusting our home accordingly.