This post was in partnership with Piccalio but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.
"If you’re a parent—or, actually, even if you’re not—you’ve probably heard the term “Montessori” a few times. So, what exactly does it mean? The Montessori method of teaching is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning, and collaborative play. While some parents enroll their little ones in Montessori schools to fully embrace this educational environment, there are simple ways to incorporate this child-led method into everyday life and play at home, too.
From classic wooden toys to big-ticket items like Pikler climbers and helper towers, it’s easy to introduce the Montessori method to your child in fun ways. These items inspire imaginative play and creative thinking. Additionally, they help babies and toddlers learn independence and confidence, as well as develop important sensory skills. Plus, they tend to be aesthetically-pleasing toys that blend seamlessly into any home’s decor. What parent doesn’t love that?!
Below, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best Montessori toys and gear for babies and toddlers. They’re great additions to any nursery, playroom, or kitchen. They also make wonderful gifts that the little ones will play with for years to come. Scroll down to check out our recs!
Piccalio
This low balance beam from editor-favorite brand Piccalio—a part toy, part furniture shop for children with a focus on wooden pieces—is designed to help little ones practice balance, coordination, and muscle and gross motor skill development.
Each set includes four wooden beams with five connectors.
Etsy | Busy Puzzle
Not only can this adorable gift be personalized with your little one's name and favorite colors, but this busy board helps keep babies engaged by touching and exploring puzzle pieces, moveable gears, a slider, and more.
Piccalio
A kid-favorite, big-ticket Montessori gift recommended for littles ages 6 months to 6 years, this Pikler triangle provides a safe space for children to climb and practice their balance, coordination, strength, and independence.
This set includes the Pikler triangle and a reversible rockwall/slide ramp. Plus, it can be folded down for easy storage!
Melissa & Doug
This wooden cart includes 16 pieces that encourages exploratory and skill-building play. In addition to being a push toy, this set includes colorful, shape-sorting puzzle pieces, a matching game, a roller drum, and a cute play coffee cup with a lid.
Use code EVERYMOM20 for 20% off your purchase!
Etsy | Busy Puzzle
A classic baby toy that also doubles as cute nursery decor, this wooden stacker is handmade and can be personalized for an additional fee. The toy helps children learn shapes, colors, coordination, motor skills, and logical thinking.
Piccalio
Teach your child the basics of cooking and meal prep with this convertible helper tower that allows little ones to safely reach kitchen counters. The tower also transforms into a table where your toddler can sit and eat—and every purchase comes with a free mini wooden cutter for kids to practice basic cutting skills.
4 colors available
Etsy | Three Sunshine Shop
Recommended for kids ages 3+, this fun toy teaches toddlers about colors, sorting, and matching. With six small bowls, 18 rainbow acorns, and a scoop, this hand-painted set also encourages pretend play and helps LOs develop fine motor skills.
Lalo
The perfect addition to any kitchen or play space, this cute table and chairs set is "sized perfectly for little ones to create, learn, snack, and socialize." Plus, it's sturdy, functional, and chic—a win, win, win!
6 colors available
Melissa & Doug
Musical instruments provide kids with an awesome sensory experience as they explore their creative side. This set from Melissa & Doug includes 17 pieces and a wooden storage crate for hours of Montessori fun.
Use code EVERYMOM20 for 20% off your purchase!
Piccalio
The possibilities for imaginative play are endless with this super-cool wooden balance board. Not only can kids practice their balance and coordination skills, but it can also be used as a seat, bridge, road, boat, slide, fort, and more!
This post was in partnership with Piccalio, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.