Montessori Style Number Cards

     Last week I was telling you guys how I felt bad about not sending Liam ti a Montessori school. After thinking about it for a while I decided that I would just try to do more Montessori style work with him at home while the younger ones were napping, since I used to be a teacher.
    I didn't have time to get to the store yet, so I made some Halloween number cards with what we had at home. All you need is card stock, stickers, scissors, and a marker. Simply cut about 1/4 off the top so they are all the same size. Write numbers 1-10 on the smaller cards and place 1-10 stickers on the larger cards, and then you are done. Have your child line up the numbers in the correct order, then pick a card and count how many stickers are on it and place it under the correct number. If your child wants more to do after that you can have them make their own number card book by writing numbers and placing stickers or stamps on their card. Super easy to do, I made mine in 20 minutes while Liam was at preschool and when he came home we did them together. He thought they were super fun. As I make more works for Liam I will continue to post them, so stay tuned.

Montessori in the Home

   After teaching Montessori for seven years there were many tips I would give parents on how they can incorporate it into their homes. Now with my kids I try to follow the philosophy in our daily lives.  So I thought I'd give you guys some tips so you can incorporate it into your home as well.
     If you are unfamiliar with Montessori the philosophy believes it is a child's work to create the person they are to become. As parents we are to guide them through this process. Here are some things you can do at home.
1. Try to limit the use of the word "no" instead try to redirect your child to another activity if they are misbehaving. Use the word "no" for emergencies (hot stove or any situation where your child may be hurt) it gives the word more meaning when used less.
2.  Give natural consequences when possible if your child spills something have them clean it up etc..
3. Try not to have too many toys out at once. If your child has a lot of toys put some away and rotate them.  This way you and your child won't be overwhelmed with too much.
4. Let your child help in the kitchen.  Even young children can help pour, cut, grate, and mix. If you watch over your child they can use a butter knife to cut or they sell items especially for children. Even though they may make a mess they'll have fun and be more open to try different foods.
5.  Try to have stools and items at your child's reach so they can be as independent as possible.
6.  If your child has issues transitioning from one activity to another or getting ready in the morning try using a timer. It will help them gain a sense of time and be more comfortable.
7.  Encourage older siblings or cousins to help teach younger ones.  It teaches the older ones patience and reinforces what they know. Plus younger ones may enjoy learning from older children instead of adults all the time.
8. Offer your child a choice when possible. Say we can either do A or B it will help them feel respected. You will have less battles since they feel like they made the decisions.
9.  Let them choose their own clothes but try to have only a few options available.
10.  Let your child explore nature at a relaxed pace.
11. Give your child 2-3 directions to follow this will help them learn order.
12. When your child is playing and engaged try to just observe and let them work this helps them build concentration..  Don't forget play is a child's work.
13. Remember you are your child's greatest role model, so model behaviors you want them to have.
If there is anything related to teaching or Montessori you would like me to write about let me know. I'd also love to hear any great things you do at home with your children:) You can also check out my guest blog about Montessori at Adventures in My Life.