The Montessori method is a tried-and-true method of teaching children, and one aspect that sets the Montessori method apart from other methods is its emphasis on hands-on learning.
In fact, Dr. Maria Montessori was so adamant about children using their senses to learn that she designed materials specifically meant to work with each sense. The result? Some of the best Montessori bookshelf options are ones that allow your child to interact with whatever they're reading or learning about — either through touch, sight, or hearing.
This can be accomplished in multiple ways: some best Montessori bookshelf options are kits that include materials like stickers and stamps for kids to use while following instructions and completing activities; other shelves are simply lined with traditional books so kids have something to read whenever they want it; even toy figurines and dolls can help bring stories to life for young readers!
How We Choose
In this article, we'll walk you through the different considerations for choosing a great Montessori bookshelf, and introduce some of our favorite options. A good Montessori bookshelf should be made from sturdy materials that can withstand daily use. It should also have plenty of space to hold all your child's favorite titles, along with any other items they need close at hand (such as art supplies or toys). And finally, it should be easy to clean so you can keep it looking brand new throughout the school year. With these factors in mind, we've rounded up five great options to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
Forward/Front Facing Bookcase Rack Display
The Montessori & Me Front-Facing Bookshelf is a great choice for any child who loves to look at books. This bookcase has a unique design that allows the covers of your favorite books to be displayed in an eye-catching way.
The shelves are angled so that they can be seen from all sides, making it easy for your child to see what's inside and why you love it so much. It also features safety testing and meets all federal regulations, ensuring this material is 100% safe. The interlocking joints ensure durability while the hardwood construction ensures years of use.
This bookcase is designed with accessibility in mind, making it perfect for nurseries or playrooms where space may be limited. And with its colorful wooden finish and craftsmanship that makes you feel like you're holding something special in your hand, this piece will make a statement wherever it's placed!
Bush Acres Montessori Kids Portable Bookshelf
The Bush Acres Farmhouse Bookcase is a great addition to any child's room. It's made of 1/2" Baltic Birch plywood, which means it has the durability and quality you'd expect from a bookcase at this price point.
The farmhouse design features three shelves for plenty of storage space for books or toys. The bookshelf also comes with two handles on each side, so you can easily move it around the room if needed. Plus, the farmhouse design offers a classic look that will match most décor styles in today's home decor trends.
This bookcase is easy to assemble too, making it perfect for parents who want to get their kids' rooms organized without hassle. This piece of furniture will help your child keep all their favorite books within reach - making reading fun again!
Montessori Toddler Wood Bookcase Storage
The Montessori Bookshelf is a great choice for parents who want to encourage their kids to read. This bookshelf features three shelves that are adjustable, so you can customize it to suit your needs.
It's made of birch plywood and finished with a natural paint finish, which ensures durability and quality. The shelf height is adjustable, too, so you can find the perfect spot for your books. The front-facing wooden shelves promote independence by allowing your child access to all the books without having to climb up on them.
This bookcase also comes in several different colors and two sizes so you can find one that fits your home style best. It's also designed at the child's height, making it easy for little ones to reach their favorite stories whenever they want!
Montessori Bookshelf FAQs
We've all been there, staring at a plethora of books on how to raise your child. It can be tough to know which books are the best for you!
You don't want to waste your time with a bad book and you certainly don't want to get something that's going to give incorrect information about Montessori education!
This is why we've created this list of the top Frequently Asked Questions about finding the perfect Montessori book. We've included our top picks for each question, so you can have ample resources on where and how to study up on montessori education!
What Makes A Montessori Bookshelf?
Montessori literature is a cornerstone of the method, and there are several different types of books used to teach young children. Picture books are for babies and young toddlers, while storybooks are used in the primary grades. Alphabet books introduce letters and sounds, while workbooks help reinforce letter recognition with writing exercises.
Books shouldn't be treated like toys or playthings – Montessori classrooms have specially designed shelves so children can choose a book on their own without handling it roughly. In addition to regular shelving, many Montessori schools also have nooks specifically designated for reading time so students can sink into a comfortable chair or sit cross-legged on the floor with their favorite stories.
What Is Montessori Shelf Theory?
Based on her observations of children in the classroom, Montessori came to believe that children have an inherent desire to learn and are capable of doing so once they're provided with materials and opportunities within a carefully designed environment.
Her theory focuses on three main areas: preparation (creating the right environment), presentation (directing the child's attention), and practice (allowing for repeated action).
Why Montessori Shelf Is Important?
It is important to have a Montessori shelf in your home because it is the perfect place to store learning materials. The materials should be organized and easy to access so that you can use them year-round as part of different lessons and activities.
The materials on the shelf should change over time as your child grows, unless you have more than one child. If this is the case, you may want to include some of their favorites, too. You may also want to put items on lower shelves if your child has mobility issues or if they are still in a crib or stroller and cannot access higher shelves safely.
What Are The Shelf Categories In Montessori?
While there is no “official” list of categories, most Montessori curriculum books follow the same general outline:
Natural Science – Living things; non-living things; forces and energy.
Physical Science – Matter and its properties; simple machines and constructions.
Mathematics – Number concepts; geometry; algebra.
Language Arts – Vocabulary development through word study; writing exercises using topics such as science or mathematics (similar to a composition class in college); storybook reading with discussion questions afterward. While younger children have an emphasis on oral language, older children also learn how to write in complete sentences and paragraphs. English is often taught alongside another language such as Spanish or Latin. Some schools offer Chinese but usually only at the high school level due to the difficulty of teaching this language compared to others. Non-language Arts – Artwork focuses on design principles rather than specific media or styles, although all are included at various times throughout the year depending on student interests and needs. Music classes include singing, playing instruments, composing music, and learning about composers from different periods in history. Dramatics classes include acting out stories (in character), improvisation exercises, playwriting projects, etc., while dance includes both ballet/modern dance lessons plus choreography projects for theater productions or recitals (often taught by experienced professional dancers). Music theory is typically reserved for high school students who demonstrate strong aptitude in music composition already so that they can understand not just how to create a piece but why it works structurally with regard to chords/scales/etc., which aids them when composing more complex pieces later on if they choose to pursue that area of interest academically as well).
What Age Is Montessori Bookshelf For?
Montessori bookshelf is recommended for children from the age of two and a half years, as they can handle books correctly. The shelf is designed to hold books weighing up to 100g, so it's suitable for toddlers who are just learning to read.
If you have an older child in the family, this type of shelf is also ideal if they like to collect their favorite things rather than keep them in a library or box on the floor. These shelves will be able to take more weight and provide plenty of storage space for toys and other belongings.
Why Is Everything Wooden Montessori?
There's a very good reason for the popularity of wooden toys at Montessori schools and centers: their durability. You might be surprised to learn that many Montessori teachers actually prohibit plastic toys in their classrooms, as they're not only less durable but often made with toxic chemicals as well.
Wooden toys are not only long-lasting, but they have the added benefit of promoting healthy development in children. For example, blocks can help children work on eye-hand coordination, while puzzles help them develop problem solving skills. Other wooden toys encourage physical movement, such as trucks and dollhouses that encourage kids to explore outdoors.
Why Are Montessori Toys So Plain?
Montessori toys may look plain compared to some other toy ranges, but this is by design. The theory behind Montessori toys is that children learn through real-world experience and hands-on play. Toys should be simple, replicating the kinds of materials that children would find in nature or around the home.
Plain colors are also important as they encourage children to focus on the materials rather than their looks. Many Montessori toys are white because this color reflects light well, making them easy for young children to see and pick up.
What Are The Four Pillars Of Montessori?
Montessori education is based on four pillars: self-expression, discipline, socialization, and academics. Self-expression may seem like a strange component of an academic curriculum but it's vital for younger children. In Montessori classrooms, students learn through hands-on activities that stimulate their senses and give them the opportunity to freely express themselves creatively. Discipline is another important pillar in Montessori classrooms. Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions and they're exposed to concepts such as fairness and compromise at a young age so they can develop these important life skills early on.
In addition to self-expression and discipline, socialization is another key component of the Montessori philosophy. It's well documented that children learn best when they're interacting with other kids so in Montessori classrooms, students work together in small groups frequently throughout the day. The final pillar of a Montessori education focuses on academics which incorporates math, science, language arts (reading and writing), history/ geography/culture/art; even physical wellness (nutrition) all taught holistically from a global perspective rather than a regional one or country specific one
How Many Toys Are In A Montessori Shelf?
A Montessori shelf will feature anywhere between two and six toys, depending on the age of the child. Younger children can benefit from having just a couple of toys to play with at any one time; this way they don't get overwhelmed or frustrated by not having enough options.
Older children will benefit from having more toys in their box so that they can explore different concepts and ideas within the same subject area. For example, if you have a science shelf set up for an older child, you may want to include several different types of animals (real and toy), as well as some scientific tools, like magnifying glasses and measuring cups.
Why Is Montessori Not Colorful?
The Montessori curriculum is not based on color or visual imagery; it is based on sensory exploration and hands-on learning. The classroom should be a well-organized place that is free of distractions so children can concentrate on their work.
Montessori classrooms are usually kept simple, with neutral tones and clean lines, creating an environment that helps children focus. Children often choose to decorate their own spaces with items they have selected from around the classroom, but most Montessori schools do not offer this type of art class because the emphasis is on what the child has learned through practical application rather than artistic expression.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Montessori bookshelf for your child is a very important decision. You want to make sure you get one that will meet all of their needs as well as fit into your home and lifestyle. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. To ensure you pick the right one, consider factors such as size and shape, materials used in construction, assembly instructions and customer reviews when shopping around. Additionally, think about how this bookcase will fit within the rest of your child's classroom setup – will they need other equipment or supplies from Montessori-inspired brands? Ultimately, with careful consideration and research you should be able to find an ideal bookshelf that both fits your budget and meets all of your expectations!
