Developmentally Appropriate Montessori Gifts
Alison Petersen • November 29, 2024

A Gift Is Personal

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season for many religious and cultures. As the holidays approach, so does the time to buy gifts for loved ones. This can be a challenge for the intentional parent, who wants to give thoughtful purchases that will inspire engagement and support development, while also not adding to the clutter in your home!


If we turn to the essential observations that Dr. Maria Montessori made about children, we can use these as a guide to consider what is most useful to give. By viewing children in their planes and sub-planes of development, we see what their needs and interests are at these times, and can choose appealing and developmentally supportive toys, activities and tools for each age.


Infants and Toddlers: 0-3 Years


Perhaps there is no greater leap in development that a human being will make in their entire lives than the changes that occur from birth to age three. The tiny helpless infant becomes an independent and functioning three year old! During this stage of life, parents and caregivers want to particularly support the child's development of their fine and gross motor skills.


Basket of Balls: Choose a variety of three or four balls (3-6 inches in diameter) and put them in a basket just large enough to hold them. The balls can be made of different materials, and have different colors. An infant will reach towards and eventually scoot towards a ball placed in front of them. A crawling baby will chase after the rolling balls. A toddler will practice throwing and kicking the balls outside or in a recreation area.


Set of Wood Blocks: A baby who is sitting can practice putting one block on top of the other. As they develop this skill and interest, they can do this work with more and more blocks. By the time they are three, they will build even more complex structures.


Small Apron and Chef's Hat: One of a toddler's favorite places is in the kitchen! With the appropriate gear, you can signal to them that they are invited to participate in the work of the home. There are a variety of one and two step activities that toddlers can do in the kitchen. A gift such as this one allows them to feel that their efforts and contributions are recognized as important.


The Young Child: 3-6 Years


While a child spends the first three years of their lives developing their movement, they spend the next three years practicing refinement of these acquisitions. They also are now becoming more curious about what is in the world around them. At this age, gifts that allow them to work with their newly acquired fine movement skills and gifts that give them facts about the world are appreciated.


Color Pencil Set: A beautiful set of colored pencils with a special drawing pad make a wonderful gift. Children love having a designated case for their pencils and a specific booklet for storing their pictures. A gift like that elevates their activity and gives it dignity!


Kitchen Set: For this gift, choose a small cutting board, a small strainer, and a crinkle cutter or wavy knife. A young child enjoys contributing to their home, and the kitchen is a wonderful place for their work. These child-sized tools allow them to participate in many food preparation activities.


Nature Guides: These are many nature guides that are appealing to young children - trees, leaves, flowers, insects, reptiles, amphibians, mammals and more. Search for ones that have a large clear picture of the subject, and the name clearly written out (perhaps with supplemental information as well.) At this age, children can best understand the books when they are simple and only have one picture per page.


For any stage of childhood, first consider what you know about a child's abilities and developmental needs. By keeping these mind, you are more likely to find a gift that will continue to appeal to them through this stage of their development. Secondly, it is important to pay attention to who your child is and what their unique interests are at the time. A gift reflects what you know about them and tells them that you see who they are and love them for it!


Supporting Your Child's Fresh Start At A Montessori School

By Alison Petersen • September 5, 2025
Starting school marks an important milestone for both children and their parents. Transitioning into a Montessori environment—with its distinctive approach to learning—can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty. At Pincushion Hill Montessori School, we’re committed to helping families navigate this change with confidence and ease. Talk About What to Expect Children tend to feel more at ease when they know what’s coming. Take some time to talk with your child about what a typical day at a Montessori school might be like. Let them know they'll have the freedom to choose activities that interest them and that they'll be learning alongside children of different ages. Explain that their teachers—often called guides—are there to support their learning and exploration, not just give directions. You might say something like: “You’ll start the day by saying hello to your teacher and friends, then you can pick something fun to work on—maybe building with blocks or practicing writing. Sometimes you’ll work alone, and other times you’ll do things with others.” Encourage Independence at Home Montessori education places a strong emphasis on independence. To help your child adjust smoothly, start encouraging independence at home. Simple tasks like getting dressed, putting away toys, or helping set the table can boost their confidence. When children realize they can do things on their own, they’re better prepared for the choices and responsibilities they’ll encounter in the classroom. These kinds of activities also reflect the Montessori idea of “learning by doing,” which is at the heart of the method. Create a Consistent Routine Routines help children feel safe and lower anxiety during new experiences. In the weeks leading up to the first day, try to follow a consistent morning schedule—waking up at the same time, having a healthy breakfast, and getting dressed on their own. You can also involve your child in getting ready the night before by letting them choose their outfit and pack their school bag. Talking about what they’re excited for the next day can also build a sense of anticipation and comfort. These small routines help foster responsibility and a smooth start to each school day. Get Ready Emotionally, Too Starting school is a big step—not just for your child, but for you as well. It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions: pride, nervousness, maybe even a little sadness. Keep in mind that your child is likely to sense your mood, so staying calm and positive can help reassure them. If you’re feeling uneasy, remind yourself of the many benefits of Montessori education—its focus on nurturing independence, curiosity, and a love of learning. Trust in the process, and in the guides who are there to support your child as they begin this new adventure.

How Can Parents Support Montessori Principles at Home?

By Alison Petersen • August 22, 2025
Practicing Montessori At Home