How to Create a Montessori Toddler Bedroom: A Step-by-Step Guide
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When it comes to creating the perfect environment for your toddler’s development, the Montessori approach is renowned for its child-centric principles. One of the key areas where these principles can be applied is in your toddler’s bedroom. A Montessori toddler bedroom is designed to foster independence, encourage exploration, and provide a safe and nurturing space for your little one to grow. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the process of how to create a Montessori toddler bedroom that will nurture your child’s natural curiosity and independence.
Scroll down to see the video tour!
A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Declutter and Simplify
The first step in creating a Montessori toddler bedroom is to declutter and simplify the space. Remove any unnecessary furniture or items that may be overwhelming or distracting for your child. Then, keep the room clean, organized, and free of excessive toys or decorations. Personally, I also store out-of-season clothes in a labeled container in a separate area of the house to minimize clothes and potential laundry.
Step 2: Child-Sized Furniture
Next, consider investing in child-sized furniture that allows your toddler to access and use everything independently. A low bed or floor bed is a fundamental element of a Montessori bedroom. It enables your child to get in and out of bed on their own, promoting a sense of autonomy.
(Use code ‘TMHGrowth‘ to save on your purchase of any Montessori furniture below from Sprout during their Holiday Sale!)
However, if you prefer a crib-sized toddler bed, this birch Montessori floor bed is the perfect alternative! (Sprout makes very high-quality furniture and this is the crib-sized Montessori bed we started with.)
Bed Safety
When it comes to a toddler floor bed or a Montessori bed in general, make sure your child’s bed is as low to the ground as possible. If you purchase a bed frame with sides, the mattress should fit tightly inside the bed frame so there are no gaps your child can fall into.
We ended up buying the Sosta Twin Platform+(2)Headboards+Full Side+3/4 Side bed option so our toddler’s bed can sit directly against the wall. We were comfortable investing in this particular bed because it can grow and change with him. Also, we know from personal experience that Sprout has the best customer service we’ve ever experienced, so it was a no-brainer. And the quality of this bed is amazing! I snuggle with both of my kiddos in their Sosta beds.
If there are no sides on the bed frame, the bed should be at least 12 inches away from the wall on all sides to prevent entrapment. (Definitely put the mattress on a bed frame instead of directly on the floor because the mattress needs air circulation or it can mold.)
(The Sosta bed frame pictured above needs to be pulled 12″ away from the wall for safety.)
(Use code TMHGrowth to save on your purchase of any Montessori furniture above from Sprout during their Holiday Sale!)
Step 3: Create a Safe Environment
Safety is paramount in a toddler’s room. Ensure that furniture is securely anchored to the wall to prevent tipping. (All Sprout furniture that requires anchoring includes a wall anchor kit.)
Use safety covers on electrical outlets, and make sure cords are out of reach. Soften sharp corners with childproof bumpers, and keep small objects or choking hazards out of reach. I linked each of the child safety supplies we’ve used over the last 7 years to help save you time.
Step 4: Choose Natural Materials
Select furniture and decor made from natural, non-toxic materials such as wood, cotton, and wool. Avoid plastic or synthetic materials whenever possible. Natural materials are not only safer but also promote a connection to the environment.
After three weeks of research, I FINALLY found the perfect affordable, non-toxic, GOTS Certified Organic Cotton mattress option for the Sosta beds. We bought this twin-size Juniper Kid’s 6″ mattress so it would sit down inside the bedframe and allow for taller sides on the bed.
If you have two kids like we do, then perhaps this two-pack of twin Juniper mattresses is what you need as well. It saved us money to buy this version since we purchased two Sosta beds.
Natural Materials Sleep Sack
For safety reasons, our toddler sleeps in this Woolino sleep sack with feet. It has a single zipper that unzips from the bottom up for easy diaper changes or potty time during the night. It’s made from wool so your toddler will stay at the right temperature during all four seasons.
Step 5: Low Shelves and Open Storage
Incorporate low shelves and open storage solutions in your toddler’s bedroom. This makes it easy for your child to access toys, books, and other materials independently. Encourage them to choose and return items to their designated places. We started with the Birch Montessori Infant Shelf pictured below in the middle. Our toddler who is now three, still uses it daily.
Below is the Birch Montessori Infant Shelf 30″ Short version we started with when our son was a baby.
Since we loved the Infant shelf so much, we added this larger and taller 30H x 48W x 11.5″ Shallow Montessori Open Back Shelf and secured it to the wall for safety.
Step 6: Include a Work/Play Area
Create a designated work and play area with an open rug or a child-sized table and chairs. This space can be used for activities like drawing, puzzles, and other hands-on learning experiences.
Step 7: Display Art at Their Eye Level
Hang artwork and decorations at your child’s eye level. This encourages them to engage with their environment and promotes a sense of ownership over their space.
Step 8: Emphasize Order and Routine
Incorporate order and routine into the room’s design. Use labels on baskets and bins to help your child identify where items belong. Encourage them to tidy up their space as part of their daily routine. We are currently using a Montessori wardrobe where they can access their own clothes each day makes a big difference.
Step 9: Personalize the Space
Let your child have a say in personalizing their room. Allow them to choose a few decorations or items that hold meaning for them, whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal, a cherished book, or artwork they’ve created. I found this encouraging framed art that my kiddos love to say with me each day.
I also recently added this station with a mirror on the wall to encourage our three-year-old to brush his own hair in the morning. I picked up this spray bottle from Ulta as it sprays a very fine mist and has an on-off option. (The shelf is from Ikea and I found the mirror at Target. I think both have been discontinued now, but they always bring in new trendy options.)
Step 10: Encourage Independence
Above all, the Montessori approach emphasizes independence. Encourage your child to make choices, problem-solve, and explore their environment freely. Your toddler’s Montessori bedroom should be a place where they can thrive, learn, and grow with confidence.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Montessori toddler bedroom that nurtures your child’s development and independence while providing a safe and welcoming space for them to explore the world on their terms. Embrace the Montessori philosophy, and watch your toddler flourish in their thoughtfully designed room.
Full Montessori Room Video Tour:
Please let me know if you have any questions or if I can help you in any way in the comments below. You can also find me on Instagram here. Feel free to message me anytime!
