Things Children can do at Home

When you enter your child in a Montessori class and become a part of the Montessori family, it is of the utmost importance that the home and the school work in harmony toward the development of the child. Below are some things that can be provided in the home.


Bathroom:

  • Step-up stool for the toilet
  • Same for sink (stool or steps) - one stool could be for all purposes
  • Small bar of soap within reach of child
  • Low mirror- child should be able to see when he brushes teeth/washes face
  • Small wash cloth and towel
  • Toothbrush within reach of child
  • Toothpaste
  • Small night light so child is able to see light switch
  • Low shelf for child's materials; towel rack with shelf
  • Tub toys - measuring spoons, cups, etc. (store in one bag)

Bedroom:

  • Closet - low pole with hangers
  • Low shelf to display few toys and treasures
  • Drawers: drawer for socks, underwear, etc., or use shoeboxes to separate items if only one drawer is available
  • Nice picture - hung low (only one), change once a month - talk about the art - picture and artist
  • Book shelf- few books, only 3 or 4
  • If windows are high - a stool so the child can look outside. (please ensure safety)
  • Plant in room; watering can and sponge on tray so child can care for plant
  • Aquarium for room - it helps child to fall asleep

Living Room:

  • Stool to look out high windows
  • Beautiful interesting objects child can look at and handle

Kitchen:

  • Own chair at table; proper height
  • Stool or steps to reach water
  • Sponge, towel and bowl on tray to clean up spills
  • Tray in refrigerator with milk or juice and healthy snack so child can get own treat
  • In lunch box: cheeses, nuts, fruit. Good nutrition is important! NO JUNK FOOD!
  • Have children pack own lunch; it's easier if they do it at night
  • Child can be helpful buying and putting away groceries

Your child needs to be a contributor in the family and feel his contribution is important!

Useful chores your child can do at home:

  • Car washing - have bucket, soap, etc. in certain place.
  • Scrub sink in bathroom or kitchen - make sure child is aware of poisons.
  • Dusting - cloth and brush for dusting at home.
  • Setting table.
  • Loading and unloading dishwasher.
  • Stacking dishes.
  • Folding the laundry - napkins, wash cloths, towels.
  • Sponging tables and counter tops.
  • Sweeping - broom, dust pan, and brush (child size).
  • Brushing crumbs - brush and tray (child size).
  • Rolling and pairing socks.
  • Weeding.
  • Plant care – watering - give names of plants
  • Feeding birds and pets
  • Taking out the trash.

Television:

  • Decide, together with your child, what programs you think are worthwhile. LIMIT - BE SELECTIVE.
  • During mealtime, try not to have the TV on. It's a nice time for the family to have conversation.
  • Research shows that because of TV, students can't write or read effectively. Your child's intellect is developed through ACTIVITY, not passive listening.

Other Notes:

  • Always give the correct name of every item.
  • Use adult vocabulary in conversation with your child. New words are fascinating and eventually he will use them in his speech and writing.
  • Your child should be exposed to very few toys. A shelf for neat storage should be available, not a toy box.