Our Favorite Newborn Baby Products (Updated 2022)

Though I usually cover Montessori topics only, I also get lots of questions about favorite baby products beyond Montessori materials. Here is a roundup of my favorite products for the early days with a baby. By no means would I call these “essentials”, but they have been very useful with each of our babies and I am looking forward to bringing them back out for this next baby due in May!

K’tan carrier - This was my most used item with both D and S in the first few months. I find this carrier really easy to use and wear, and love the various wearing options it provides for your baby’s different stages. I put S in this carrier when we are out and about, and at home when I need two hands and he doesn’t want to rest in his bassinet or on the floor. He is content being close to me, and I love the snuggles!

Ergo carrier - Though I primarily use the K’tan in the newborn phase, this is our favorite carrier for hiking or longer walks. It fits both my husband and I well. It’s extremely comfortable and distributes the weight evenly across your body. We used it from birth with the newborn insert, and it got even more use in later infancy and toddlerhood.

Halo Bassinet - I found with both babies nursing through the night, it was easiest to have them sleep right next to our bed in a bedside bassinet. I liked that they could sleep right next to me, but without fear of pillows/rolling into me. The halo is great because of it’s see-through mesh sides and adjustable height. I kept each child in a bassinet in our room until they transitioned to floor beds in their own rooms around 6 months.

Ollie swaddle - We tried so many swaddles with D, but used this one from the start with S and it’s by far my favorite. It’s worth the cost because unlike others, one size fits all. It is super easy to put on, and it doesn’t ride up over their mouth. You can also secure it under their armpits so they can have free arms and hands too, while still feeling snug and swaddled. While newborns do not need to be swaddled, both D and S slept so much better at night when swaddled those first few weeks.

Topponcino - This is another item we used multiple times a day with each baby, to rest on and gaze at their mobiles from. When they lie on his back here, they are completely unrestricted in their movements. They are also free to stretch their arms and legs, suck on their fingers, and turn their head side to side. The topponcino also provided a safe way for D to hold S in her lap. S also took some short naps here!

Mobiles - Mobiles are the first Montessori material we introduce and were enjoyed by both our babies from 2 weeks on. These mobiles encourage visual tracking and focus without overstimulation. These mobiles are purely visual, but once our babies were reaching out, we attached ribbons, bells, and other tactile mobiles to this wooden play gym.

Boppy - This definitely makes nursing more comfortable, and my posture is better when using it. Though I’ll be honest, I use it much less with S because I was often nursing him on the go with a toddler running around! When supervised, I occasionally used the Boppy for an extra cushion when they were alert but fussy on their back, or for assisted tummy time. The black and white high contrast cards pictured are another favorite, as infants’ color vision is still developing.

UppaBaby stroller - This was one of our most appreciated gifts when S was born. There are so many customizations to this stroller, but our favorite was the toddler (rumble) seat with bassinet below. You can also easily pop in our UppaBaby carseat. It is perfect for outings and walks to the park and in the city, when the diaper bag is full and I need a break from wearing baby. This time around, with bigger kids, we are trying the Thule double stroller which also comes with a bassinet option.

Hatch sound machine/nightlight - We used these from infancy on with both kids. It functions as both a noise machine and a nightlight, as well as a time-to-rise toddler clock. You can adjust brightness, sound type, volume, and color from your phone, which has proved useful on many occasions!

Travel sound machine - We used this portable sound machine when we were on the go and it really helped with sleep when your baby (like ours) sleeps best with white noise. It can also play lullaby music.

Como Tomo bottles - With both babies, it was nice to have the freedom to pump and give a bottle from time to time (and for my husband to be able to feed him). These are by far my favorite bottle for new babies, as they mimic a breast in shape and feel. Both D and S preferred these bottles to any others.

Aden & Anais burpy bibs - You can never have too many burp cloths, and these are some the best. Not only are they super soft and come in fun patterns, but they can later be used as a wrap-around bib when baby starts solids! I also love Aden & Anais swaddle blankets.

Magnetic Me Footies - In terms of clothing, these are hands-down the best for quick changes. I especially love them for nighttime diaper changes. No snaps, no zippers, just magnets. Such a great invention!

Kickee Footies - These are my favorite comfy PJs - made from bamboo and oh-so-soft. The kids wore Kickee pajamas all through infancy and toddlerhood. They are nice and thin for summertime too, and come in really fun patterns and colors! They are available with footies or without, and with zippers or snaps.

Newborn Gowns - Lastly, these are my third favorite option for nighttime. Gowns make diaper changes a breeze! The brand Monica and Andy also make super-soft gowns, like the scooter one S is wearing below.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

A Jigsaw Puzzle Progression

What comes after knob and peg puzzles? One next step is jigsaw puzzles! I generally see interest for simple 2-piece jigsaw puzzles around age two. While some toddlers take off and are ready for giant floor puzzles within months, others stick with 2- and 3-piece puzzles for some time. There isn’t one right timeline, but there is a typical progression. I’ll share that progression as well as some of our favorites in each category.

2-3 piece puzzles

My favorite 2- and 3-piece puzzles are by Learning Journey. There are several versions of these 2-piece puzzles and these 3-piece realistic animal puzzles have been S’ favorite for a while now.

4-6 piece puzzles

My favorite beginner 4-piece jigsaw puzzles are these Melissa & Doug wooden ones with the border for each puzzle. I do wish all four weren’t on one board, but you can still start out by only putting out one puzzle (4 pieces) at a time, and then adding more as your child is ready for more of a challenge.

Note that there are lots of cute 4/5/6-piece puzzle sets such as this farm animal one, which are cute but often a bit trickier as they aren’t consistent sizes and it’s not clear where the pieces connect. A better option for toddlers is this set by Eric Carle, where each puzzle (of varying pieces) forms a rectangle.

12-16 piece puzzles

Transitioning to this many pieces is usually a pretty big jump for toddlers, as they go from being able to clearly see how 3-4 pieces fit together, to having to do a lot of trial and error with a dozen or more pieces.

There are a variety of 12-piece puzzles, including the beautiful ones pictured by artist Jo Collier (gifted to us by Playroom Collective). Others include simple jigsaw puzzles by Mudpuppy (I love the ziplock it comes with!) or these 15-piece ones by Puzzle Huddle. Melissa and Doug make some fun 12-piece wooden puzzles as well.

24-36 piece puzzles

Once your child gets to this stage, there are endless options for jigsaw puzzles! D first got interested in puzzles with more pieces through any type of jumbo floor puzzle. From there, some of our favorite jigsaw puzzle shops have included: Puzzle Huddle, Crocodile Creek, and Mudpuppy.

Note that your toddler will likely still enjoy wooden peg puzzles even after being introduced to beginning jigsaw puzzles, and your preschooelr who is able to do 48-piece puzzles might still enjoy simpler ones. We can offer both! Meeting our child where they are at with puzzles will not only boost their self confidence but also their frustration tolerance, concentration, and problem solving skills!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Thankful Children's Books

Thankful Books! In honor of Thanksgiving coming up, I’m sharing a few of our favorite children’s books, focusing on gratitude, family, and a sense of community. We have purchased some of these books and found others at our local library. You can find links to these and a few more on my Bookshop page!

Thank you, Omu - This has been a long time favorite as we are big fans of Oge Mora. This book tells the story of lovely Omu, who makes a big pot of stew, and shares with her neighbors and many community helpers, one by one. Just as she realizes she doesn’t have any left for herself, all of her neighbors show up with dishes to share. It is a lovely story of generosity and community. The illustrations are as wonderful as the prose.

Feast for Ten - This is a small board book that’s great for babies and still enjoyed by my 4-year-old! In this sweet counting and rhyming book, a mother and her 5 children go to the store to collect all the ingredients for their feast. Back at home, we count to ten again as they prepare the food and sit down to reap the rewards of their hard work. “Eight platters down, nine chairs around, ten hungry folks to share the meal!” I love that on each page, the family is working together, helping prepare this feast as a family.

Around the Table that Granddad Build - This story is cumulative, meaning that the story builds, repeating itself while adding on a new phrase each page. This repetition is great for young children as they enjoy reading along out loud and being able to predict what words come next. In this story, family and friends come together to share a meal, each contributing something they have made that represents their culture or personality. It all starts with the table that Grandad built.

Apple Cake - This is another simple, rhyming gratitute book that even the youngest toddlers will enjoy. In this short story, a little girl goes out for a walk to gather ingredients for apple cake. She thanks the flowers, bees, farmers, friends, and everything and everyone for all the gifts that they share. “Thank you for the food we make. Thank you all for apple cake!” At the end of the book is a delicious recipe for apple cake that is easy enough to do with little ones!

Thankful - Especially in these times, I appreciate how this book celebrates our every day thanks. “The chef for his plates licked clean, the dancer for the beat, the doctor for patients getting well”. The images portray one family and how they each play the role of chef, dancer, doctor, and everything else in their day to day life. It’s relatable and sweet.

We are Grateful - This tells the story of a Cherokee family and their community expressing thanks, "otsaliheliga", in big and small ways throughout each of the seasons. I love the connection to nature and incorporation of Cherokee traditions and language throughout. There is something new to notice in the illustrations each time we read it.

Fry Bread - This book is a beautiful depiction of a Native American family celebrating fry bread, but more than that, their history, traditions, culture, and community. We love the gorgeous and detailed illustrations and poetic verse. I appreciate the long authors notes at the end with a recipe and an in depth look at this story of fry bread and of indigenous commnities all across America.

The Table - This picture book is brand new and a wonderful addition to our Thanksgiving collection. In this relatable but story, a child remembers all the wonderful times and conversations her family shared at their dinner table. As her family members have become distracted and busy, their family table has grown smaller and smaller until it disappears. She has to figure out a way to create a new table for her family to make new memories and come together to connect once more.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Children's Audiobooks: What we Love

I’ve always been a fan of audiobooks. I love entering into another world while I cook, pull weeds, or go for a walk. About a year ago, I introduced children’s audiobooks to D, and it has opened up a whole new world for her as well. She requests to listen to audiobooks daily. While they don’t replace reading physical books together, they are a wonderful addition.

What makes an audiobook different than a picture book?

Imagination - When children hear a story without pictures, their imagination takes the lead.  They get to imagine where the story takes place and what the characters look like. They imagine their facial expressions based on their tone of voice, and the scene based on words alone. They hear different accents, inflections, and pitches of voices that help them imagine each distinct character. 

Free Hands - Audiobooks can be great for winding down before bed, looking out the window in the car, or simply cuddling on the couch and listening. They can also be a wonderful way to free up the hands to play or move around while listening. D, at age 4, can get really immersed in pretend play or art while she listens to a favorite story.

Scare Factor - I’ve also noticed that children who are more sensitive to sensory overload do better with audiobooks than tv shows and even certain picture books. This is because listening to a story involves fewer sensory inputs: it’s only sound. When we hear something without seeing it, it’s less scary or overwhelming. 

On that note, audiobooks can also be a great way to transition from reality-based stories to a little more fantasy. Not only does it lessen the scare factor, but listening to a story about animals who act and talk like humans doesn’t feel so different than if the characters were human - you almost forget they aren’t. 

Our Favorites

There are endless audiobook options, but I’ll share some of our favorites so far. I’ve found collections of short stories are the very best for my 4-year-old (and my 2-year-old enjoys listening too). Each story is just the right length to hold their attention, and the stories flow naturally from one to the next. This makes it easier on a long car ride, rather than me or them having to choose a new story every 5 minutes.

Some of our favorite audiobook collections are: Frog and Toad, Little Bear, Anna Hibiscus, Amelia Bedelia, Winnie the Pooh, Juana and Lucas, and Julia Donaldson stories. Many of these are great for older kids as well. This list is not exhaustive; there is an evergrowing variety of audiobooks to choose from.

We often try out audiobooks via the library or the Libby app. We purchase our favorites on Audible or on CD. We have a CD player in the car and at home, and it’s often easier than listening via my phone or other fancier devices. D very quickly figured out how to operate the CD player and loves the independence it provides. S is getting there!

There are also read-along books we pick up from the library that offer a different kind of experience. These are fun for non-readers and readers alike. The kids pick a few each time we visit the library. There are newer Vox books with built-in audio but my kids actually prefer the books with CDs. D loves turning the page each time she hears the little “ding!”

Podcasts are another great way to listen to story, but I’ll save that post for another day!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Back-to-Preschool Essentials

It can be overwhelming to find the right gear for kids at school. Though there are far more options than I can list, here are some of my favorites for my own kids. I also consulted a current Montessori teacher for her favorites too! I hope this helps ease some of your decision making as we enter a new school year.

1. Water bottles 

The best water bottles are easy for kids to open and close and don’t leak. I prefer stainless steel to plastic as it’s more environmentally friendly and keeps water cooler but plastic (BPA free) does allow children to see when their water is running low. Simply Modern has fun designs and has held up well over time. Camelbak has both stainless steel and plastic options. 

• Simply Modern - fun designs, stainless steel

• Camelbak - stainless steel or BPA-free plastic

2. Backpacks

There are lots of backpacks that can work. I look for one that they can comfortably wear themselves. It should be big enough to hold a lunch box and a change of clothes but not so big that it falls off their shoulders. A stretchy side pocket that holds a water bottle is ideal.

• Pottery Barn Kids - various sizes, straps on the back for a nap mat or jacket, water bottle pocket

• Skip Hop - fun animal options, water bottle pocket, good size for preschoolers

3. Lunch Boxes
The most important feature for me when looking for a snack or lunch box is that my children can open it themselves. I like having various small compartments to keep lunch or snack interesting.

• Planet Box - customizable, fun colors and patterns, great for lunches

• Lunch Bots - simple on/off lid, great size for snacks or small lunch

• Bentgo - leak-proof, plastic, great for luches too

4. Indoor Shoes

Montessori preschools typically require indoor shoes or slippers. I look for slippers that are sturdy but not bulky, have one simple velcro strap, a wide toe box, flat arch, flexible sole, and of a natural fabric so they stay cool. 

• See Kai Run - comfortable, easy to put on, our favorites!

• Kamik - similar but slightly thicker

5. Labels 

Most schools also ask for each item your child brings or wears to school to have a name on it. When choosing labels, the most important feature is that it stays on through washes and wear! I especially love ones that have a detail that's easy to spot, like a flower or a frog.  

• Bright Star - fun colors and details, iron-on options for clothing as well as stickers for items such as water bottles and snack containers.

• No-Iron - inexpensive, basic white, no-iron lables for clothing

Bonus: Masks

I recognize that schools and parents differ on this topic but if you need or want a mask for a young child, here are some recommendations! I look for masks that fit properly, stay over their nose/chin and out of their mouths with minimal adjustments, have adjustable ear loops, are breathable and comfortable, and are machine washable. Adding a lanyard can make it easier to put them back on.

• Vistaprint - fun patterns, lightweight and breathable, stays on well

• Primary - affordable, colorful, soft, elastic behind head

• Jaanuu - very comfortable, stays out of mouth, great ear straps

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Our Favorite Cooperative Board Games

We love cooperative board games in our house! Board games in general have been a great way to spend 1:1 time with D and also fun to play as a whole family on the weekends. Cooperative games in particular offer a great alternative to traditional early board games like shoots and ladders or candy land.

Cooperative board games shift the focus from competition between players to working together against the board. Working together as a team helps the kids practice their communication and planning skills, as well as patience in taking turns. This plays out in the real world too. These games even impact the types of imaginative games D comes up with when playing with S or her friends. 

I also find these games to be more enjoyable to play with the kids. They never end with “I win!” Or “I wanted to win!” Instead, we celebrate together, or simply try again! 

First Orchard

This is a great first cooperative board game, best for toddlers ages 2 and up. The goal of this game is to fill the basket with colored apples before the raven reaches the orchard. The rules are simple: roll the die and if you land on a color, move the corresponding color apple to the basket. If you roll the raven, move the raven one step towards the orchard. This game helps with color recognition, sorting, and learning how to take turns. I also appreciate that in this game designed for toddlers, the pieces are large and wooden rather than small and cardboard.  

Friends and Neighbors

This game says 3 and up but I’d say it’s best for ages 2 to 4. It has a sweet premise: to find the object that will help a friend or neighbor feel better. This ends up being mostly a matching game. The object of the game is to help all the friends before the stop sign fills up. Before the game starts, pick one board to fill together. Then take turns picking tokens out of the bag to see if the object on it helps someone on your shared board. If it does, you place it on your board; if not, you place it on the stop sign. It’s a simple game but starts some good conversations about community, helping, and emotions. 

Hoot Owl Hoot!

We don’t own this game but have heard wonderful things! This game is playable around age 3. This color-matching game doesn’t involve any reading, so it’s easy for even younger players to join in with a bit of assistance. In this game, the owls have ventured out during the night and want to fly home before sunrise. Take turns drawing cards and move an owl of your choice to the corresponding color on the board. When you draw a sunlight card instead of a color card, daylight draws a bit nearer. Everyone works together to move all of the owls home before daybreak. 

Snug as a Bug

This game has three levels of play, making it great for 3 to 5 year olds. The object of this game is to help all the little bugs under the rug before the three stink bugs “stink up the place”. Each bug has four attributes: a specific color, shape, number, and size of eyes. In the basic version, you choose one attribute to look for, e.g. shapes and in more challenging versions, you roll a die to pick a new attribute each turn. Then spin the spinner and take turns finding bugs that match the specific color/number/shape/size you landed on. If there aren’t any bugs that match, a stink bug appears. It’s a silly but fun game that incorporates a lot of key concepts for preschoolers! 

Their “Stink Bug” Faces :)

Stone Soup

This game says 5 and up but I would say it can be enjoyed by 4-year-olds too. It is essentially a game of memory but the added twists actually make it quite fun. The goal of the game is to fill the hot cauldron with ingredients before the fire goes out. To start, all the pieces go face down on the board (this includes pairs of ingredients, a magic stone, and fire cards). Take turns picking up two cards, looking for matches, and you can help each other in the process! When you find a match, you add it to the “soup”. If you pick up a fire card, you add it to the fire. It’s a race to find all the ingredient pairs before the last fire card! 

Baby Dinosaur Rescue 

This is another game that has different versions/levels so that it can be enjoyed at different ages, though I’d say 4 is a good starting age. The object of this game is to get all the baby dinosaurs to the island before the lava reaches them. This game involves both playing cards and the board. Each time you take a turn and play a card, you either move one of the baby dinosaur tokens forward on the path toward the island or get the lava closer to the valley. This game involves some strategy, as you figure out which baby dinosaur to move along the board and when to play certain cards from your hand. This is when collaborative games really shine, as you can help each other make decisions rather than competing alone! 

Outfoxed

This is the most advanced game of the bunch, but a 4-year-old can play and enjoy this with their grown-ups. In this game, a sneaky fox has stolen a pot pie and it’s up to you to work solving clues to solve the mystery of who is guilty This game involves a lot of pieces including a board, cards, dice, tokens, and figurines. Each round reveals a clue as to which of the foxes stole the pie based on what they are wearing or holding. There are fun surprises along the way and children love playing detective! I like that there isn’t anything scary about this “whodonit” game while still being a fun mystery to solve. 

These are the cooperative board games we have enjoyed in our family so far! I know there are many others, and I look forward to playing even more as our kids get older! What are your favorite board games to play with your kids right now?

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Gearing up Toddlers for All-Weather Play

“Let the children be free; encourage them; let them run outside when it is raining; let them remove their shoes when they find a puddle of water; and when the grass of the meadows is wet with dew, let them run on it and trample it with their bare feet; let them rest peacefully when a tree invites them to sleep beneath its shade; let them shout and laugh when the sun wakes them.”

— Maria Montessori - The Discovery of the child

How we prepare and talk about the weather has a profound impact on how our children experience the weather themselves. When we are curious and excited, rather than disappointed, our children are too. Montessori encourages spending lots of time in nature and letting children have the freedom to explore as they wish. It can get muddy, sandy, messy, and cold, but getting outside every day, even in less than mild conditions, helps our child adapt their bodies to their climate, boosts their immune system, and creates a lasting love of our world.

Gear for Toddlers

I’ve found that investing in high-quality rain and cold weather gear not only for S and D, but also for myself has made a huge difference in getting out each day. I like to make sure we all have comfortable tall rain boots, walkable calf height winter boots, a long rain jacket, warm layers, hooded puffy, warm hats, and gloves. For the kids, rain suits and rain boots are essential in the pacific northwest, as well as layers such as fleece or down underneath. 

I know this can get quite expensive, so I’ve shared some websites to find used outdoor clothing below. I’ve also gotten many high-quality hand-me-downs for the kids from family and friends.

Used Gear:

https://wornwear.patagonia.com/shop/kids-and-baby

https://www.rei.com/used/shop/kids-clothing-just-added

https://www.geartrade.com/clothing/kids

Rainy Weather

Tuffo Rain Suit - This has hands-down been the best purchase. As we live in the rainy pacific northwest, these rain suits ensure we get outside every day. I like that we can add plenty of layers under them too and that they scrunch at the ankles to keep rain out when puddle jumping.

Oakiwear Rain Jacket and Pants - When it’s not pouring and D just needs a rain coat for school, this is our favorite. You can also pair it with the pants to make a rain suit!

Stonz Booties - We didn’t use these ourselves but I’ve heard great things about them for babies and toddlers! They don’t fall off.

Bogs Rain Boots - These are my very favorite for toddlers. They are soft and flexible. S has stomped in every puddle and still come home with dry feet. It helps to have the rain suit over the top of the boots to keep rain from getting in.

Oaki Rain Boots - These are the best I’ve found for independent dressing. D can pull these on her feet in seconds which make them great for home and school.

Cold and Wet

Rain suit and boots mentioned above

Waterproof Mittens or Kid Snow Mittens - For all ages, mittens keep hands warmer than gloves! I like ones that scrunch at wrist to keep them on!

Warm base layer - A long-sleeved shirt, fleece layer, and wool socks under the rain suit and boots will keep toddlers extra cozy and warm!

Down coat under rain suit - On really cold and wet days, we do a long-sleeved shirt, puffy jacket, and the rain suit on top.

Warm hat - I really like any lined winter hats for toddlers, which can be found lots of places! Ear flaps are a nice addition for warmth.

Snow Days

One-Piece Snow Suit - This is the best snow suit for toddlers. I always size up to make it last two seasons. There are also less expensive versions many places, just make sure it’s waterproof too! D’s is just from Carter’s this year.

Stonz Booties - We didn’t use these ourselves but I’ve heard great things about them for babies and toddlers! You can layer to make extra warm in winter.

Lands End boots - The kids got these this year and they have been great for walking and playing in the snow! I like that they are velcro rather than laces.

Base layers - Cotton, fleece, or wool pants and long-sleeved top and wool socks under the snowsuit and boots (depending on how cold it is!)

Waterproof Mittens or Kid Snow Mittens - For all ages, mittens keep hands warmer than gloves! I like ones that scrunch at wrist to keep them on!

Warm hat - I really like any lined winter hats for toddlers, which can be found lots of places! Ear flaps are a nice addition for warmth.

Don’t forget yourself too! I am definitely going to invest in a rain suit myself but for now I have a long rain jacket, a good puffy jacket, tall rain boots, and lots of warm layers too!

Sleep and Floor Bed Tips with Sleep Consultant Megan Kumpf

I am really excited to do something new here and share an interview with a fellow mama and pediatric sleep consultant, Megan Kumpf. Megan is a mom of three young children, so she knows just how tough (but important) sleep is! She has worked with all kinds of families, including those who have chosen floor beds for their toddlers. If you’d like to know more about Megan, you can read about her bio on the Sleepwise Consulting website. She generously offers a FREE 15-minute evaluation call so go ahead and schedule your call with her!

S’ room at 12 months old

My own children have slept on floor beds since 6 months old. (They are now 12 months and almost 3 years) We chose to use floor beds for a few reasons. A big one is that they promote independence and freedom within limits (read more about that principle here). While the children do have more space to explore, they also learn appropriate boundaries of that freedom. We set clear, consistent expectations around bedtime and sleep. With this, the children feel secure, capable of putting themselves to sleep, trusted, and respected (not to mention they allow for a few extra cuddles at their level before tucking them in for the night!) That being said, floor beds are not a necessity for independent sleep. I believe every family needs to do what works for them, and allows them to get the rest they need while ensuring the children are sleeping safely.

With both of our children, we started setting up healthy sleep habits very early on so they have been comfortable putting themselves to sleep since young babies. As Megan talks about, this doesn’t mean abandoning them to cry on end. It is a gradual process that involves routines, consistency, wake times, a conducive sleep environment. More than anything, it’s having confidence in our children and giving the chance they deserve to learn how to sleep well, and independently.

Whether you have a newborn, toddler, or preschooler, Megan has tips for you on how to help your child get the sleep they (and you!) need, floor bed or not. If you would like a personalized sleep plan or have further questions for her, I highly recommend scheduling your FREE 15-minute evaluation call and going from there! Without further ado, here is our interview:

D’s room at almost 3 years old

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Hi Megan! What would you say your mission is?

At Sleep Wise, as a group of Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultants, our mission is to give tired parents the tools they need to teach their children how to sleep 11-12 hours through the night. Sleep is not a luxury. Sleep is a necessity for healthy growth and development and I love being able to coach people through that. 

 Why have you chosen to help families get the rest they need? What would you say are the biggest benefits to a well-rested family?

I became a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant because I love to help people and I saw the benefits first hand, of being a well-rested family. My first baby was a unicorn sleeper, he just got it! My second baby was not and it took some digging with Sleep Wise to find the answers. When given the missing pieces to the sleep puzzle, it was a wonderful turn around. Being a well-rested family benefits all areas of life- play, school, and work. A well-rested family is happier. Research shows sleep brings happiness, because your brain is ready to focus, learn and explore. When our bodies miss the sleep they need we often become angry, stressed and unhappy. I love the predictability that independent sleep skills bring a family, you know your child will sleep and rest well. Lastly, the time in the evening after my kids are in bed is so valuable. When I lay my kids down and kiss them goodnight I know they will wake up in the morning from a full night’s sleep ready to enjoy the day. This also gives me time without the kids to recharge, spend time with my husband, or work with my clients.

 How much sleep do babies and children need at different ages? Does this vary widely from child to child?

 Sleep does vary a bit child to child. Some little ones have lower sleep needs and some have higher and that’s ok! They just need their own perfect routine. Below, are some average times to help you find where your baby fits. The times shown below are guidelines for daytime sleep by age. The average night time sleep needed for most kids up to age 5 is 11-12 hours per night.

Here is a great sleep chart for ages and times

 Do babies and children just instinctively rest when they need to rest or do they need our assistance?

 I believe that some babies are born good sleepers, however most are not and need to be taught how to sleep well. Sleep is learned skill just like getting dressed, tying your shoes, or riding a bike. However, I do believe once your baby has that beautifully built foundation for independent sleep it only takes a little encouragement and the proper wake times for them to know that it’s time for rest and even be eager to go to sleep.

Can you define sleep training in the context of self-soothing? What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about sleep training?

 Self-soothing is just one part of learning how to sleep, but it is the main part of independent sleep. When your child learns to self soothe it usually means they can calm their own body and drift off to sleep on their own without relying on something external. When a child is capable of falling asleep independently, you’re going to see more consistent sleep patterns come about. We all have our own self soothing strategies – pillow position, window cracked open, favorite blanket, no socks etc. Helping your child find theirs is such a gift. Some children suck a finger, twirl their hair, or hold a blanket if at the appropriate age to have one. A few of the biggest misconceptions I hear are you have to use cry it out, it’s stressful for your child, or they won’t feel attached anymore. I want to take a minute to debunk each one of those. Our method at Sleep Wise is not traditional “cry it out”. While there may be some tears, you can absolutely comfort your child and work with them on these new sleep skills. Remember that it’s never too late to start. The second thing I often hear is that sleep training is too stressful for children, but I would argue that not sleeping enough or fighting sleep is equally or more stressful (and research backs me on this) and finding what’s right for your family is the best choice. Lastly, I often hear, “my child won’t love me as much or feel as attached to me if they are sleeping on their own.” I get it!! I’m a mom of 3 and I love those sweet snuggles and individual times with each of my children, but I promise seeing them wake up each morning well rested and happy is a win. Check out our blog on sleep training and attachment parenting if you want more information here: https://sleepwiseconsulting.com/attachment-parenting-sleeptraining/

How can parents set up healthy sleep habits from birth? When does routine become important?

 Yes, you can absolutely start from the very beginning and lay a great sleep foundation. In the newborn days it’s just a gentle repetitive process. If you were to choose a newborn plan with us there is no crying involved at all with sleep. They are just too tiny and need to still eat quite often. Starting right from the beginning allows you to encourage self-soothing skills and by 12 weeks little ones are peacefully drifting off to sleep on their own and sleeping 10-12 hours at night with feeds as needed. Around 4 weeks is a great time to gently start thinking about a loose routine. Using an eat, play, sleep routine will help your baby learn to fall asleep without feeding which is a great start. Don’t be afraid to try laying your baby down drowsy and see what happens.  A dark room, sound machine on, and soothing as needed is a great way to start! Often babies will surprise us and fall asleep on their own.

Could you give us a sample bedtime routine for an infant? How about a toddler?

Bedtime routines are so beneficial in teaching your child that sleep is coming. I like a routine to be simple and predictable. For most children about 20-30 minutes is good, maybe a bit longer on bath nights. For a baby birth to three months I would aim for something like this – bath, lotion, jammies, a book, feed, kisses, goodnight. Once a child is older than 3 months of age it’s important to move the feed to the beginning of the bedtime routine. This helps ensure your little one is fully using those independent sleep skills and not drifting to sleep while eating. For an older child you would want to include brushing their teeth and going potty if they are to that point. To help create predictably, choosing a number of books helps older kids know what’s expected, usually I recommend about 3 books pending the length. With my older kids I love to talk about something that made them happy that day or something they were grateful for, ending the day on a positive note always does the heart good.

Let's talk a bit about floor beds. Would you say that floor beds can work for any family or child? Are there any safety considerations?" 

I feel that floor beds can be successful for a younger child if he or she is used to having freedom within limits. Some examples being, if your child has too much freedom or no limits during the day, but you want them to stay on their bed all night, that’s going to be challenging because your child won’t understand the why behind it. In order for a floor bed to be the most successful, there has to be a foundation built during the day with your child of healthy boundaries and expectations. There are some safety considerations to pay close attention to. I would recommend waiting until 6 months and up to introduce a floor bed. That way your baby has a chance to work on those independent sleep skills. If your child is under the age of 2 years old your floor bed should be a firm crib mattress per AAP recommendations. A regular twin or full size mattress is too soft and can cause suffocation risks. The floor bed should be just a flat fitted sheet and away from the walls so that your baby can’t become trapped. Making sure your little one's room is safe, checking furniture anchors, outlets, small objects, window curtains, blankets, doors, etc. Safe sleep is always most important for your child.

If parents are interested in introducing a floor bed to an infant, how would you suggest they begin? Is it possible to teach an infant to self-soothe on a floor bed?

When introducing a floor bed it’s super beneficial to already have those independent sleep skills mastered. If you can start at a younger age teaching those self-soothing strategies in a bassinet or crib, it will make the transition more smooth. When introducing a floor bed, starting with nap time can be a good option so you can see your child and know what they are doing. However, if you find this to be tricky, opting for bedtime might work better since their natural sleep drive is higher at night. You can teach a baby to self soothe on a floor bed, just know it may be a little more challenging. If you’re willing to be consistent you will get the results you’re looking for. Just make sure to consider all safety components first.

What tips would you give parents who are making the switch from a crib to a floor or toddler bed?

 My top tip is always to be 100% consistent. There may be some bumps in the road when you transition to something new, but the consistency is key. Again, as I mentioned above, if your child is already in a crib and you’re thinking about this transition, solidifying those independent skills first will make a world of difference. If you’ve already jumped a step ahead to more space with a floor bed that’s ok but, have a plan in mind for setting boundaries and expectations so it can go as smoothly as possible. There are a lot of sleep methods out there! If you’re not sure which one is right for your family you’re welcome to reach out to me anytime for a free evaluation call. 

How do parents help their child to stay in their room (and sleep!) with a floor bed or toddler bed?

 I would first say the same as above, CONSISTENCY! Are you seeing a pattern build?! For younger children ages 6 months – 2 years having proper wake times and independent sleep skills already established will help. Proper wake times will make it so your baby/child is ready for sleep. Patience and returning them to bed as needed will help them learn those expectations. For older children ages 2+ finding something that motivates them to stay in bed is key. Positive praise, reassurance, and a “you can do it” attitude really help. Celebrating with a fun experience the next day always reminds little ones they are doing well, a visit to the park or special picnic lunch are some favorites. At this age being black and white with your expectations is crucial. For example, you have to have boundaries and expectations during the day with your child if you want it to smoothly translate over to bedtime. Using an ok to wake clock is a wonderful visual learning tool for sleep. If your child comes out when it’s sleeping time, you will consistently take them back and remind them of the boundaries and the clock. Practice makes perfect! All of these big changes take time.

Is it ever too late to help a child sleep independently? What are some tips to help a 3+ year old fall asleep and stay asleep on their own? 

 It is NEVER too late to establish healthy, independent sleep skills. I work with ages 0-10 years. Sleep is the gift that keeps on giving. We all have to sleep! For older kids ages 3+ it has to be clear and consistent. Making it positive and finding a sleep method you feel comfortable with is key. Remember, at this age your child has been sleeping a “different” way for a long time. Do not expect results overnight, it can absolutely take a few weeks to see the new changes happen. At this age carving out some special one on one time during the day can really help your child feel more confident sleeping independently at night. Little ones crave that attention and filling that cup during the day will help them settle in quickly for the night. Talking during the day about how sleep is good for your body and it will give them super power energy to play well is a great start too. You’ve got this!!!

Thank you, Megan!

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Note: These photos are from S’ room at 12 months old. My husband built the frame when D was 9 months or so with an opening to be able to get in and out. It has worked well for both of our children. More recently, the AAP has come up with some guidelines for floor beds. The Sprout Floor Bed Frame is acceptable, as long as the mattress is firm and flat with no soft or loose bedding. A crib sized mattress should be used until the age of two. The bed also should not be against a wall, as this could lead to entrapment between the mattress and the wall. In short, the sleep environment should align with the recommendations in the policy statement SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2016 Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment.

Image from Sprout Kids - use code MREALLIFE for 10% off your floor bed purchase

Some tips on baby/child proofing the room:

• Anchor furniture

• If your child is a climber, remove furniture that they could climb and fall from

• Move dresser to the closet (keep doors closed and locked)

• For babies: option to place changing mat on the floor and place a floating shelf on the wall to store changing supplies

• For toddlers: consider doing diaper changes in the bathroom

• Use a video monitor that can scan the whole room

• Use self-closing outlet covers and hide cords or use cord covers

• Avoid lamps or heavy items that could fall

• Remove any small items/choking hazards from the floor

• Use cordless blinds or curtains

• Secure a gate at the top of the stairs

We use self-closing outlets but if/when he gets interested in cords, we’ll use cord covers

You can find links to our favorite sleep furniture/gear/decor in this post!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Montessori-Inspired Third Birthday Gift Ideas

As D’s third birthday approaches next month, I feel all kinds of emotions. Turning three is a big one in the Montessori world, as she transitions from the unconscious to the conscious mind (more on that soon). I can see such a shift already in how she thinks, plays, communicates, and asks questions. This birthday list was really fun to put together as I imagine all the joy she will find in new kinds of materials, games, and toys. I hope these ideas are helpful for those of you with a soon-to-be three-year-old in your life! I imagine many of these toys will be enjoyed throughout the next few years!

For more ideas or for those with younger siblings, don’t miss these Second Birthday Gift Ideas and First Birthday Gift Ideas!

Birthday Gifts

Marble Run Construction or Marble Tree - We have a musical rainbow tree and it is completely mesmerizing for both me and D. It is fun to experiment with different kinds of marbles and balls which affect the sound and speed. The beautiful marble run construction set reminds me of a favorite toy I had as a child, but this version is definitely a level up!

Face Memory Game - I love this set of wonderfully diverse face cards. These are perfect simply as a matching and discussion activity, but even more fun as your child learns how to play the game of Memory with you!

Pizza Kit with Pizza Day Book - Who doesn’t love pizza? This little set is great for young children who enjoy helping out in the kitchen. Your child can now make their very own pizza and even slice it themselves! Pizza Day is a favorite book to go along with it.

Hand Bells - As far as musical instruments go, these are on the end of least difficult to hear at home. :) Not only are these fun for preschoolers to play, but they can learn about scales and even play songs eventually! If you have two sets, they can match the notes to each other.

Sneaky Squirrel Game or Count Your Chickens Game - This is the age when your child might really start to get the hang of “board” games. I’ve heard wonderful things about both of these games, which incorporate turn-taking, colors, numbers, and a lot of fun.

Layered Puzzle - Layered puzzles are always popular with toddlers, and this multi-layered puzzle takes it up a notch for preschoolers. With 22 pieces and four layers (one for each season), it will be a nice challenge for this age group.

Flower Press - This is a beautiful gift for children with spring and summer birthdays and those who love to collect flowers! Not only is the act of pressing flowers fun for children in and of itself, but the pressed flowers can be used for all kinds of arts and crafts projects.

Fort Building Silk and Clips - This is such a fun set to take your child’s fort-building to the next level. Children can use the large clips to buld a fort anywhere (even outside), and the large silk adds beauty wherever it goes.

Scooter - This is one of D’s favorite new activities, both indoors and out. While the balance bike is a necessity, the scooter is a fun and speedy alternative to mix it up on your many neighborhood and park adventures!

Grimm’s Rainbow - Like all Grimm’s wooden toys, this is worth it. We have had our rainbow for over a year and it is used in so many ways - as tunnels, bridges, or slides, for color matching and nesting, and whatever else your child imagines. This beautiful classic toy never leaves our shelf.

Geoboard - The geoboard is fun for children and adults alike. As your child gets more practice with it, they can follow patterns and make shapes. I love that this one is entirely made of Birch. Pulling the rubber bands over the geoboard is wonderful fine motor practice (especially for putting on socks and shoes!)

Jigsaw Puzzle - Depending on your chid’s puzzle experience, this might be their first “real” puzzle and a nice challenge for them at this age. It is a puzzle that you might start out doing together as they gradually master it on their own. I love the beautiful scenes that these Petit Collage puzzles make.

Imagination Magnets - Did anyone else love tangrams as a kid? These are similar to that, but with a magnetic board for creating. I love that these little shapes allow for creativity as well as following the patterns provided.

Dollhouse with Wooden Dolls - This is the age when pretend play really takes off, and this dollhouse is perfect for children who enjoy “playing house”. I picked this one for D for it’s size, aesthetic, and open concept. A variety of dolls could work in this house, but we picked the Hape wooden dolls as they are bendable, wooden, and have details in their faces and clothes.

Measuring Tape and Toolbox Book - This real wooden measuring tape will provide endless possibilities for your tool-loving preschooler. Children at this age love to measure and it’s a great pre-math exercise! This is one of our favorite books about tools to go along with it.

Birthday Books

(click pictures for links)

Happy Birthday to the special three-year-old in your life!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Montessori-Inspired Second Birthday Gift Ideas

After posting my First Birthday Gift Idea post, I received many requests for a second and third birthday gift list as well, and I’m happy to help! You can expect the third birthday gift idea post in the next couple of weeks. I know how hard it is to shop for little ones, even your own! I hope this helps consolidate the choices for those of you with a soon-to-be two-year-old in your life. These gifts are almost all toys and tools that have been well-loved between the ages of two and three in our home. Many of them will be enjoyed well past the age of three!

Wheelbarrow - Toddlers love “maximum effort” activities, which allow them to put forth their whole body and energy into something with purpose. Your toddler will enjoy filling the wheelbarrow with all kinds of nature treasures and helping out with the outdoor chores you do!

Grimms Blocks - Grimms wooden toys are pricey, but they will last through the years. There are endless ways to use these open-ended blocks. It doesn’t hurt that they look beautiful in your home too! These are great for birthdays of any age.

Mini Cooking Set and Rolling Pins - These are D’s most-used kitchen utensils for real baking and cooking projects with me. Though these can be used for pretend play or play dough, they are completely functional too. Either of these would pair well with The Montessori Guide’s picture recipe ebook!

Sensory Bin Wooden Tools - This is a beautiful set of tools and bowls for sensory play. D loves the wooden scoopers and box with a lid for scooping and pouring rainbow rice and sand. The tongs are great for picking out hidden objects or transferring items between bowls.

Community Helpers and Vehicles - Toddlers find such excitement from fire trucks, school buses, and the helpers associated with them. This is a simple and fun matching activity, and the wooden vehicles roll, providing lots of opportunity for “driving” around the house.

Shape Latch Board - This is a wonderful combination of shape sorter and latch board. Toddlers love locks and latches, so they will enjoy the challenge of opening each door to find the hidden shape. Lots of opportunities for repetition here!

Bath Pipes and Cogs - These are hands down the best bath toys we’ve ever had. As mentioned above, pouring water never gets old. The pipes and cogs stick to the bath tub wall and can be arranged in any number of ways.

Soft Dress-Up Doll - Between the age of two and three, D really got into pretend play with her dolls. These beautiful and plush dolls are perfect for carrying around, pushing in the stroller, and dressing up. They are pricey but a perfect gift for a little one. I also appreciate the diversity of dolls from Hazel Village.

Bead Stringing - Lacing beads was and still is an activity D enjoys on repeat. I especially love this set, with the novel shapes and fun colors. The wooden end makes it easier for toddlers to string on the beads - just be sure to tie a knot on the other end so the beads don’t slide right off!

Fine Motor Tool Set - Sensory bins are a hit with the two-year-olds, and the right tools make all the difference. This simple set from Learning Resources provides tools for transferring a variety of materials, and provide excellent practice for using real scissors, and later, writing.

Farm Nesting Blocks - Djeco is one of my favorite, more whimsical, toy brands for kids. We don’t have this exact one, but it combines a few toddler favorites: stacking, nesting, and hiding objects inside boxes! I love the little farm animals that come with these, which provide opportunities for open-ended play as well.

Toob Figurines - Not a week goes by we don’t use a set a Toob figurines for some sort of activity. From matching to sorting to pretend play, these are well-utilised and loved. You can find Toob figurines for animals, vehicles, flowers, and all kinds of categories!

Pouring Set - Maybe even more popular than locking and latching is pouring water. Once your toddler has mastered pouring water into a cup, this provides a few added challenges with different vessels and a small funnel. This set is also perfect for flower arranging!

Doll Stroller - To go along with a new (or old doll), a stroller is sure to be a hit. I had no idea how many uses it would provide for D. She loves pushing her babies in it, but also her stuffed animals, random objects, and “groceries”. It is in constant use.

First Animal Matching Puzzle - These have been D’s favorite kind of puzzle since her second birthday. With just two pieces each, these are on the easier end, and a great intro to “real” puzzles. I especially like that these are real images of the animals rather than cartoons.

Basic Train Set - This is the perfect first train set. It’s easy enough for toddlers to put together themselves and the colors brighten it up. Even with a minimal amount of pieces, there are a variety of ways to arrange the tracks, with hills and loops. It’s a perfect one to add onto over the years to come!

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For birthday book ideas, check out the First Birthday Gift Ideas, as well as our favorite Montessori books. For even more gift inspiration, check out my holiday guide for babies and toddlers!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Montessori-Inspired First Birthday Gift Ideas

I honestly can’t believe S is almost one. It goes by even faster the second time! To distract myself from feeling sad about how fast he’s growing up, I’m working on birthday gift ideas! Each of these items is something that either D loved at 12-24 months, or something that we are gifting S for his first birthday next month. I hope these serve as inspiration for you or for your relative/friend looking for a gift! At the bottom you will find a few favorite first birthday books as well. Happy Montessori gifting and Happy Birthday to the special little one in your life. :)

Note: If you are looking for more traditional Montessori materials, I recommend checking out The Montessori Guide, which offers month-by-month Montessori toy and activity suggestions from birth to 24 months. You can even buy a gift card for a new mom or mom-to-be!

Gift Ideas

Scoot Around Bike - I gave this to my nephew for his first birthday and both him and his brother loved it. I’m hoping we will get the hand-me down for S! It’s nice because it can be ridden both inside and outside.

Washable Doll - Nothing has been more loved than D’s dolls, and I can already see S’ interest in them too. As baby washing has been one of D’s favorite activities, I am getting S his own washable baby doll too. That way the baby can go in the mini pool, get a bath, and just not worry about it getting wet in general!

Sensory Shape Puzzle - This shape sorter/puzzle is a fun variation on the classic, with several themes to choose from. I love the sensory aspect of this, and I am a big fan of Tender Leaf toys in general! They are a favorite of mine to gift.

Toddler Apron - I plan on getting one of these for both my kids for their birthdays this year! I just love the design and the practical nature of them. You can find more designs on this website as well. These aprons are perfect for helping in the kitchen as well as doing art and water play.

Hide and Seek Board - This was one of D’s favorite toys for quite a long time. In the beginning, she enjoyed simply opening the doors and taking the magnets out. As she got clsoer to two, she enjoyed matching the magnets with the correct door. A fun way to fulfill a toddler’s love of opening and closing!

Hammered Flatware Set - This is a beautiful set that I plan to gift S. It is hard to find quality silverware for babies and toddlers, but this one fits the bill. This paired with the sweet plate below would make a lovely gift for the Montessori baby or toddler in your life.

Drum - I already purchased this for S for this birthday, and I know he’s going to love it! This is the best of the baby/toddler drums in quality and sound. I am sure D will want to be stealing this as well!

Grimm’s Nesting Cups - Grimm’s toys are pricey, but like many of our favorite wooden toys, they are enjoyed for years. Young toddlers love to stack, nest, and transfer, and these are great for all of those activities. As they get older, they are perfect for color sorting activities as well.

Family Photo Book - I made one of these for D around S’ age and it’s still on her bookshelf in her room. It’s probably her most loved book ever. In the midst of what we are experiencing in the world right now, this is especially meaningful. love this one because you can update the photos as families grow and change.

Natural Wooden Blocks - These have been a staple in our house for a couple of years. The blocks are beautiful, natural, and just the right size and shapes. These were the first blocks D built a giant tower with, and now both kids enjoy building with them (and knocking down of course).

Wooden Animal Plate - These are also very sweet and a fun gift for new(ish) eaters. We have a couple of fun animal plates from TimberChild, and it’s always a special treat when breakfast is served on a bear!

Hammer and Roll - We have a hammering toy, but if I had to buy a different one, this would be it. I just love the look of it, and how the balls roll out on a slant. Plan Toys never disappoints!

Wooden Animals - Though we often give and get an abundance of stuffed animals (which are also loved), these wooden animals are a less common but favorite in our house. They are fun for language activities, open-ended play, and later, pretend play.

Push Wagon - This was one of D’s big presents for her first birthday and it was soloved. I will be bringing it back out for S soon. There are lots of great walker wagons, but this one is sturdy and heavy, and therefore great for new walkers. As D got older, she enjoyed putting her animals and toys inside to push around.

Personalized Name Puzzle - I gifted this to D for her first birthday. It’s as much decor as it is a toy! I love having it out on her shelf in her bedroom. Heirloom Kids is another one of my most loved small shops.

Books

The Wonderful Things You Will Be

Everywhere Babies

I Wish You More

I Love You Through and Through

On the Night you were Born

10 Little Fingers and 10 Little Toes

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

Our Favorite Winter Books

Somehow another winter is upon us, which means lots of cozy afternoons reading books, drinking tea, and hoping for snow days! At the very least we can gear up for our trip up to the Methow Valley this winter, where we are guaranteed skiing and sledding galore. Whatever and wherever your winter is, I know you and your baby or toddler will love these stories to get in the winter spirit.

Over and Under - My sister gifted us this one last year, and it is still my favorite this year. Toddlers and children of all ages will enjoy discovering the secret animal world under the snow. As a cross-country skier, I especially love the dual story of the father-daughter on a ski adventure while the animals hibernate and explore below.

Snow Globe Wishes - This is a new hardcover that both D and I were excited to discover. It tells a sweet story of a family snuggling in and enjoying time together inside during a snow stormy night. It celebrates togetherness and peace, and the beauty of a snowy night.

The Snowy Day - Everyone probably knows this classic story, but it will always remain on our list. It is just a wonderful story of Peter’s snow day in the city.

Red Sled - D’s favorite books are often the ones with little to no words at all. They have slowly become mine too. This is a simple story of a bear who discovers a sled outside a cabin, and goes for a ride with his animal friends at night. Rather than words, this story is told through the sound effects: “scrinch scrunch”, “rooooeoeee” and "gadung gadung” are our favorites. Yesterday, I watched as she sat on the couch and read this one aloud to herself, just making the sound effects on each page.

Winter Dance - This is a wonderful one to pair with Over and Under because it tells the story of the animals living above the snow, and their preparation for the winter season. Fox isn’t sure what to do in the wintertime, but after watching all of the animals, he finally meets another fox, and finds his role too.

Winter Babies - Perfect for the littlest ones, this seasonal story features sweet faces and simple phrases, and winter delights. Though a bit young for D, she has it memorized and enjoys reading it to us now!

Winter is Here - Last but not least, this board book is a toddler and adult favorite, with beautiful illustrations and descriptive language. There are lovely details on each page, describing the sights, sounds, and feels of a snowy winter. Short enough for babies but engaging enough for toddlers.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, you won’t pay anything extra, but I will get a small commission, which helps keep this blog going. Thanks for supporting Montessori in Real Life!

A Montessori-Inspired Holiday Gift Guide

Now that Halloween is over, it’s time to start looking forward to the holidays! I always *try* to get my holiday shopping done early to make it easier to enjoy the more festive parts of December. So, I decided to get this list out on the extra early side, for the early bird shoppers like me! If nothing else, you can at least start your lists early. :) I’ve created short gift guides for four age groups, from young babies to older toddlers. Because these gifts will likely be enjoyed for many months, I don’t get too specific with ages.

These gift ideas are more Montessori-inspired toys than classic Montessori materials. I think it’s fun to get a bit more creative when it comes to holiday gifting, especially for family and friends! If you’re looking for classic, specific-by-age Montessori materials for an infant or toddler, check out The Montessori Guide! The Montessori Guide would also make a wonderful gift for a new or expecting parent in your life. Other great non-traditional gifts include: museum or zoo memberships, music classes, photo books, or kid-magazine subscriptions such as Highlights or National Geographic. Without further ado, here is the Montessori-ish holiday gift guide!

Younger Babies

Black and White Activity Pad - This mini play mat is perfect for tummy time. The black and white contrasting pictures appeal to new babies’ eyes, and the sensory features (squeaking, crinkling, teething) appeals to babies of all ages!

Bird Felt Mobile - This is a gorgeous mobile to place above your baby’s movement area or changing station! It is so calming and bright.

Wooden Animal Rattles: These are beautiful, natural rattles/teethers that would make a perfect gift for a new baby in your life.

Rainbow Fabric Ball: A fun textured ball that is easy for a baby to hold and offers a variety of different textures and sounds!

FanFan the Fawn: This is a variation of the classic Sophie Giraffe. Babies just universally love to gnaw on these things and they are the perfect size for their little hands.

Sensory Tumbling Toys - These look really sweet for a baby who is starting to rotate on their tummy or sit up. Each one rolls around a bit, and one has a mirror, one with a soft fabric, and one has beads that rattle. These are definitely on our list for S.

Eggs in Cups - This is more of a traditional Montessori toy, and babies just love putting the egg inside of the cup. I like that this one comes in a set. This is especially fun for a new sitter!

Older Babies

Pull Toy Shape Sorter - As your baby begins to crawl and then walk, they will likely love both pulling and pushing. This fun pull toy doubles as a shape sorter too!

Ball Racing Toy - This is a fun, smaller version of the classic ball tracker, which is always a baby and toddler favorite. Such a fun one to do on repeat! Bonus: it’s double sided. This is definitely on my list for S but I am sure D will enjoy it too.

Elephant Stacking Rings - I love the bold colors of this classic stacking ring. Would be such a cute addition to your shelfie. :)

Jumbo Knob Puzzle - These large knobs and simple 3-piece design make a great beginner puzzle for babies or young toddlers. They will enjoy these friendly, familiar animals as well!

Musical Wobbler - Babies will delight in the cause and effect of this little Penguin. As they wobble and turn him around, he makes a little music. This is a great one for enticing your baby to reach a bit further or scoot towards it!

Montessori Imbucare Boxes - These are a classic Montessori material, but this is the first I’ve seen of an interchangeable lid. Such a fun idea! Imbucare boxes are a hit for babies and toddlers alike.

Wooden Vehicles - These are perfect for your new scooter or crawler. These fit perfectly in small hands and are fun to zoom and chase around the house! I think I’ll add a couple of these as stocking stuffers for S.

Younger Toddlers

Sensory Play Scoopers and Tongs - Sensory play is great for this age group, but it can be tough to find the right tools for scooping and pouring. This beautiful set is made from natural wood and provide tools for transferring all kinds of sensory materials.

Animal Sorter Truck - I like the fun variation on a shape sorter, with the added bonus of being an open-ended toy for older toddlers as well. Busy toddlers will enjoy wheeling their truck full of animals around the house!

Wooden Scooter Bike - This is another favorite among active toddlers, and a great beginner scooter bike (before graduating to a balance bike). Can be used indoors or out!

Musical Instruments Sound Puzzle - I like to include one musical toy in each list, and these puzzles provide a musical reward through each piece! I love that this puzzle provides accurate sounds of each musical instrument, making it educational too.

Hammering Toy - Toddlers love to hammer, and this one is wonderful because it can be done on repeat, over and over. Your toddler simply has to flip the board over and do it all again.

Giant Nesting/Stacking Cubes - These are great for combining fine and gross motor movements, and look so beautiful too. Toddlers love building giant towers, and this one will be as tall as them!

Wooden Balance Rocker - We have had one of these for a year, and it is a source of endless entertainment. It can be a slide, a bridge, a rocker, a balance board, or whatever else your toddler imagines.

Older Toddlers

Beginner Jigsaw Puzzles - Once your toddler moves beyond knob puzzles and can put together simple 2-piece jigsaw puzzles, this is a nice challenge . I like that each puzzle has a slightly different number of pieces and the finished animals are so sweet.

Magnification Blocks - These blocks are a great intro to science for toddlers. Not only does each block magnify (2x) any object your toddler can find, but they can be stacked and used like normal blocks too.

Sort and Stack Cylinders - I’ve been eyeing these for a while, so they are definitely on D’s Christmas list! I love that they can be nested, stacked, and sorted, and provide both closed and open-ended work.

Light Box with Geometric Solids - This is another one on D’s list. Light boxes provide endless fun with various natural and colored materials. I especially like the look of these geometric solids on the light box!

Xylophone - Xylophones are fun for babies and toddlers of all ages, but older toddlers can actually get the hang of making different sounds from different keys. This toy may make noise, but hopefully it’s a pleasant one!

Ceramic Tea Set - A tea set that is both beautiful and functional. Toddlers love to pour and serve snack, and now they can do so in style. Hopefully you’ll be invited to tea too!

Roll n Play - This is a favorite cooperative game for children of all ages. It gets toddlers moving and talking and laughing! This makes a fun first family game.

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Our Favorite Montessori-Friendly Books

One of the aspects of parenting I was most excited about was sharing the magic and power of books with my children. Not only do I enjoy getting lost in a really good book (when I find/make the time), but I especially love reading to my babes. There are countless benefits to reading to babies and young children, including strengthening language, attention span, memory, creativity, and emotional understanding. Not to mention it is wonderful bonding time! I’ve been reading to D since day 1 (if nothing else, there’s always bedtime!) and it makes my heart happy to see her love of books already.

Although I am not strict about it, there are a couple of qualities I look for in books for my children, following a few Montessori principles.

Realistic Nature:

Most of our books are based in reality, meaning you don’t find a lot of talking animals and princesses. The Montessori belief is that young children, especially toddlers, learn best through reality (concrete) rather than fantasy (abstract). This does NOT mean we discourage pretend play. It just means we let toddlers and young children take the lead in their own pretend play, which is typically acting out real-life scenarios such as playing house or doctor. When children begin to fully understand the difference between reality and fantasy, fairy tales and fantasy books become more appropriate. So for now, most of our books involve real-life content and ideally realistic or at least beautifully-illustrated pictures!

Age-appropriateness

This includes both the durability, length, and content. When D was younger, we only had board books, but now she understands how to be careful with some of our larger hardcover books. I try to choose books that aren’t too text-heavy, and if they are, involve catchy rhymes or exciting illustrations that keep her attention. Sometimes her attention span for books just depends on the time of day! Lastly, I try to find books on topics that I think she will enjoy (such as babies), as well as new ideas (such as our solar system).

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10 of D’s Favorite Books

The Big Book of First Words - This is D’s favorite book right now, and honestly, mine too! It’s a little like “Where’s Waldo” but more toddler-friendly and less dizzying. ;) Each page features a different scene such a kitchen or zoo, and on the right side of the page has images of objects or animals to find within the scene. It’s a bit trickier than her other favorite, Let’s Find Momo. I think she especially loves how it’s a giant board book!

Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth - This book offers hope for all of us who love and want to help take care of our planet. It celebrates all of the beauty of Earth and the people on it. “You’re never alone on Earth.” :) There are so many fun pictures and topics within this book to talk about with a toddler.

All the World - This is such a beautifully illustrated book. It is a simple but poetic story about a family’s day from morning to night, and all the beautiful things we see and do. It also emphasizes the importance of togetherness. Everywhere Babies is done by the same illustrator and is another of our longtime favorites.

Press Here - This is D’s favorite interactive book. Although it is simply a book of dots, each page has instructions on how to make the dots create different patterns, e.g. tipping the book on its side to make them “fall down”. D loves feeling like she has had an effect on the dots’ pattern page after page.

Where Do I Sleep? - This has been a longtime bedtime favorite. For those not wanting a Pacific Northwest specific book, I Would Tuck You In is also similar and sweet. A simple but really beautifully illustrated story of where animals and their babies sleep. I love how realistic the illustrations are too!

The Wonderful Things You Will Be - I love the message this book sends; that a child can grow up to be anything they choose and there is value in it all. D loves the beautiful illustrations of children, and the pop-out page at the end! This is a wonderful gift for new parents/babies.

You Were the First - We gave this to D before S came along and it’s still one of her favorites. It tells the story of all baby’s firsts, and how the parents get to experience it all with them. It ends with “there may be a second or a third, to sleep in the basket with the yellow ribbon wound round…but you will always be our first”. It makes me tear up each time!

Wherever You Are: My Love Will Find You - Speaking of tearing up, this book always gets me! It is such a beautiful story of how a parent’s love is with their child wherever they go and whatever they feel. It’s a wonderful, comforting story for bedtime. This one’s story is a bit abstract, but as I said, I’m not super strict about every book being completely based in reality.

Eating the Alphabet - This is a colorful and classic book for teaching letters. I enjoy that it emphasizes the sound letters make rather than just the letter itself. Plus, D loves her food, so this one is extra fun for her! ;) I especially like that it introduces unusual fruits and veggies.

Seek and Count - As D becomes more interested in numbers, she’s really enjoyed this lift-a-flap number book. Each page features a surprise under the flap and counts up from one to ten. It’s simple but great for toddlers who are counting to 10. She loves to recall what is hidden on each page - great for memory!

You can find more of our other favorites listed in my interview with Kelsey Paff of Where The Board Books Are!