How to set up a Montessori-Inspired toddler play space at home

Here’s how you can create a Montessori-inspired space with everyday items:

Use What You Have

Low bookshelves can be replaced with shoeboxes, baskets, or repurposed furniture to display toys neatly.

• Place a few small baskets or trays on the floor or a low surface so your toddler can easily see and choose their toys
• Use cardboard boxes as storage bins or stackable shelves
• Repurpose an old bookshelf, coffee table, or even a sturdy crate as a child-height display area.

Benefit

Organising toys at your child’s level promotes independence and helps them learn to tidy up after playtime.

DIY Sensory Play

Use dried rice, pasta, or water in a shallow container with cups and spoons for scooping and pouring

• Fill a plastic tub or large bowl with dried rice, beans, or pasta for a budget-friendly sensory bin
• Add measuring spoons, small cups, or toy animals to encourage exploration
• For a no-mess option, use water and a sponge for squeezing or transfer it between cups.

Benefit

Sensory play enhances fine motor skills, concentration, and problem-solving while keeping children engaged in hands-on learning.

Household Items as Toys

Wooden spoons, measuring cups, empty containers, and fabric scraps make great open-ended play materials.

• Give your child a few safe kitchen tools like a wooden spoon and mixing bowl for pretend cooking
• Let them explore different textures with fabric scraps or stack empty boxes to build towers
• Create a sound activity by filling containers with rice, beans, or beads to shake and listen.

Benefit

Everyday objects encourage creativity, problem-solving, and independent play while saving money on expensive toys.

Nature Play

Collect leaves, rocks, and sticks for sorting, stacking, and exploring textures—no cost, endless fun.

• Go on a nature walk and collect interesting leaves, rocks, or twigs
• Use them for sorting by colour, shape, or size
• Let your child stack rocks, make leaf rubbings, or create simple nature crafts.

Benefit

Playing with natural materials improves sensory awareness, curiosity, and connection to the world around them.

Encourage Independence

Create a designated space where your child can access their toys, books, and self-care items (like a basket with a brush and tissues).

• Place a small basket with books in a cosy reading corner
• Set up a child-height coat hook or a small bin for shoes to help them learn self-care
• Arrange a mirror and a small container with a hairbrush, tissues, or washcloths for personal hygiene tasks.

Benefit

A child-friendly space promotes confidence, responsibility, and a sense of independence in everyday tasks.