Implementing Montessori Principles in the Nursery
"Help Me Do It Myself"
The core tenant of Montessori is fostering independence. In the home, this means creating an environment where the child can function without constant adult intervention.
The Prepared Environment
- Low Shelves: Toys should be displayed on open, low shelves, not thrown in a toy box. This allows the child to select a task and return it.
- Child-Sized Furniture: A small table and chair allow the child to eat or work comfortably.
- Real Tools: Give toddlers real (safe) glasses, plates, and cleaning tools. A small broom allows them to participate in care of the environment.
The Role of the Nanny
A Montessori-aligned nanny acts as a guide, not an entertainer. They observe the child, step back to allow struggle/problem solving, and only intervene when necessary. When hiring on Kindred, look for the "Montessori" specialization tag to find caregivers trained in these methods.