Parenting Kindly

Got a busy two-year-old who wants to do everything by themselves?

That’s the perfect time to start introducing Montessori-style activities at home. You don’t need fancy materials or a full room makeover. Just a few intentional setups that match your child’s growing need for independence, movement, and hands-on learning.

Here are 10 easy Montessori-inspired activities you can do right at home, with things you probably already have.

1. Pouring Practice with Water or Grains

Set up two small pitchers (or cups) and let your toddler pour from one to the other. Start with dry materials like lentils or rice, then move to water.

Why it works: Builds coordination, concentration, and practical life skills.
Top Pick: Try a Montessori-Style Pouring Set with small ceramic jugs and a tray to contain spills.

2. Washing Toys or Dishes

Fill a shallow basin with soapy water, add a sponge and a few plastic toys or dishes. Let your child scrub and rinse to their heart’s content.

Why it works: Encourages responsibility and sensory exploration.

3. Matching Lids to Containers

Gather different containers with lids and mix them up. Ask your toddler to find which lid fits which container.

Why it works: Builds problem-solving and fine motor skills.

4. Nature Tray

Collect leaves, rocks, flowers, or pinecones from outside and arrange them on a tray. Let your child observe, sort, or simply explore with their hands.

Why it works: Connects children to nature and encourages curiosity.

5. Simple Snack Prep

Let your child peel a banana, spread nut butter on toast with a toddler-safe knife, or pour their own water into a cup.

Why it works: Encourages independence and confidence with food.

Top Pick: The Learning Tower gives your toddler a safe way to help at the counter.

6. Object-to-Picture Matching

Print photos of familiar objects (like a spoon, ball, or shoe) and have your toddler match the real item to the picture.

Why it works: Boosts language, visual recognition, and early cognitive development.

7. Posting Activities

Cut a slit in a cardboard box and give your toddler coins, poker chips, or big buttons to “post” through it.

Why it works: Great for hand-eye coordination and focus.

8. Montessori-Style Toy Shelf

Instead of bins filled with lots of toys, display 6–8 toys neatly on a low shelf. Rotate weekly to keep interest fresh.

Why it works: Encourages deep play, independence, and respect for materials.
Top Pick: A Montessori Toy Shelf is a worthwhile investment for toddler playrooms.

9. Transferring with Tongs or a Spoon

Set up two bowls, one filled with cotton balls, pom-poms, or pasta, and have your toddler transfer items using a spoon or tongs.

Why it works: Develops hand strength and fine motor control, prepping for writing later on.

10. Dressing Frames or Real Clothes Practice

Let your toddler practice buttoning, zipping, or snapping clothing using dressing frames, or better yet, real clothes.

Why it works: Helps build independence with dressing and self-care.

Top Pick: Montessori Button and Zipper Dressing Frames are a fun way to teach dressing skills.

Final Thoughts

Montessori at home doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s really about trusting your toddler, slowing down, and creating a space that invites them to explore and do things for themselves.

These simple activities encourage independence, focus, and confidence—all while helping you slow the pace of daily life. Let your little one lead, and watch how capable they really are.

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Curious about more Montessori-inspired routines, toys, and tips? Explore the Parenting Kindly blog for practical ideas that support real families like yours. [Click here]