3 Ways to Bring Montessori Home this Winter Break

Apple is closed through January 1, but there are many ways you can keep your child engaged and active, with a Montessori focus, this Winter Break! And as the weather gets colder, we've put together a few ideas for keeping busy while at home indoors:

Involve your child in cooking & baking

Letting your child be involved in meal preparation will benefit the whole family, and the food just tastes better! A Learning Tower or other step stool is perfect for allowing children to work safely at the kitchen counter right next to Mom and Dad. They can help prepare meals, dry dishes, and enjoy more time with their families. Children who are involved with meal preparation are much more likely to try new foods at mealtime, too! At this time of year there is usually a lot of activity happening in the kitchen; don't miss the opportunity to get your little one involved and make them a part of the process.

Get a head start on spring cleaning & organizing - together!

Cleaning and organizing around the house can make a great Winter Break activity! Since the family may be away from work & school during this time, take advantage and work in some productivity. When it comes to organization, consider the ways you can involve your child both in the organizing process and going forward on a daily basis. Creating a space for homework, art projects, or a quiet spot to read is important for every member of the family! For example, limiting toy choices and providing open shelves (instead of toy boxes where toys are heaped in a pile) at your child’s eye level allows her to see all of her choices and return objects to their correct places, just like in the Montessori classroom. Sorting smaller items, such as puzzles, art supplies, and blocks by category into trays or baskets makes them accessible and your child can easily put them away.

Let your child get themselves dressed to play in the snow

While it can be trying on the patience to let children dress themselves, it's important for their growth, learning, and sense of independence. If you'll be bundling up to head out into the snow, let your child take the lead. Make available seasonally appropriate clothing with minimal choices, with the items laid out in the order they'll be needed. Try to help as little as possible and be encouraging!

We hope you have a healthy, happy, restful Winter Break and can't wait to see you back at school in the New Year! In the meantime, enjoy these Montessori activities at home!