By Leonora Shell of Essential Montessori
Month 6
- Object permanence box
- Small wooden stacking toys
- Simple shape puzzles
We offer a bundle of 6-9 month materials that include the first Montessori puzzles made from three dimensional shapes (sphere, egg and peg shapes) as well as a wooden cylinder rattle with balls that encourages rolling/chasing/crawling movements to retrieve it. Once a child is sitting up they can begin to complete their first puzzles.
We purchased an object permanence box from another maker but you can also DIY a version for yourself! I've seen great tutorials using cardboard boxes as well as excellent second-hand options.
3 to 6 Months
Between three and six months, a baby's sensory awareness becomes more refined, and they become increasingly interested in exploring their surroundings. At this age, Montessori materials can be used to encourage exploration and support the development of gross and fine motor skills. Tactile mobiles are excellent to introduce at this age -- they are grasping and reaching and beginning to understand cause and effect.
One of the most important Montessori materials for this age is a Montessori mirror. A low, unbreakable mirror can be placed on the floor to allow a baby to explore their reflection and practice reaching and rolling. Additionally, grasping materials can be introduced with more complex textures and shapes to encourage exploration and manipulation. You can find what you need in our 3-6 month bundle, which contains grasping materials, musical materials as well as ones that roll and encourage movement. This is by far our most popular bundle of handmade Montessori materials as it spans several months of development.
6 to 9 Months
Between six and nine months, a baby's gross and fine motor skills become more refined, and they begin to develop a greater sense of independence. At this age, Montessori materials can be used to support the development of gross and fine motor skills, promote independence, and encourage exploration.
Additionally, a low shelf can be introduced to allow a baby to independently choose and explore a variety of Montessori materials. We created a quick tutorial on our instagram on how to make a low, lightweight shelf for your little one. Alternatively a lightweight wood shoe rack or a similar shelf makes an excellent alternative. The shelf can be set-up earlier than this age, but really comes into use by the child rather than the adult during this stage. We love this age range and put together the 6-9 month bundle to support your child's needs at this age.
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We are Montessori Beautiful!
We are Montessori Beautiful!