Practical Montessori for the Home

Allison Mattingly Mother of Sadie (5) and Drew (3)

How I fell in love with Montessori

Independence

KitchenSet-Up: • All kid’s plates, cups,

and bowls are placed in a low cabinet.

• One drawer designated for kid’s eating and cooking utensils.

• Snacks and other frequently eaten foods on a low shelf in the pantry.

• Pitchers of milk and other cold snacks and food on low shelf.

• Sturdy, moveable stool

KitchenMy 3 and 5 year olds are expected to…• Pack your own lunch.• Get your own snacks

during approved times.• Set your own place

setting on the table for each meal.

• Clean up after yourself after each meal and snack

• Empty your dishes from the dishwasher daily.

What they like to do in the kitchen…• Help Mom and Dad cook!

BathroomSet Up: • Sturdy Stool• Low Hooks for towels• Timer for teeth-brushing• Flushable wet wipes• Shower Attachment

(optional)Expectations: • Brush own teeth• Complete toileting by

self• Shower independently

BedroomSet-Up: • Accessible clothing

storage. • Hamper for dirty

clothes• Logical organization of

toys and books. (this is always a work in progress)

Expectations: • Dress and undress self. • Clean room before

bedtime.

Practical Life

Community Contribution versus Chores

Contributions:

• Self Care• Emptying Dishwasher

of your dishes• Do your own laundry• If you make a mess,

clean it up.

Other Montessori Ideas to Bring Home

Peace Journal A reflection activity

after making poor choices. Recommended for children 4 and up.

Montessori Language• Work

• Alternative to toys and activities. Good for use when I want them to play alone.

• Closed• Ex. “The TV is closed

because it is a school day.”

• Restore• Ex. “Please restore your

work before you may have snack”

• Directed Choice• 2 equally acceptable

choices

Resources

The Blog!Whiningisclosed.wordpress.comEmail me!Allison.mattingly@gmail.comBooks that Inspire: Kids in the KitchenBy: Sara Cotner and Kylie D’AltonHow to Raise an Amazing Child the Montessori WayBy: Tom Selton