You’ve probably heard people say that toddlers are like sponges, soaking up information about the world around them at a rapid rate as they begin to develop speech, cognition, and motor skills. In the Montessori method, this stage of development, where infants and toddlers learn without conscious effort, is known as the absorbent mind.
The Montessori toddler program you choose can help your child develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally. But you can further this development by incorporating the program’s principles and practices at home.
Engaged parents can take on a collaborative role when it comes to supporting and reinforcing what toddlers learn in school. Here’s what you can do to maximize the potential of your toddler’s absorbent mind.
1. Be Available and Present
Young children need a lot of attention, but there’s more to it than just watching them closely to make sure they don’t get hurt. You also need to be engaged in their developmental process.
To connect with kids, get down to their level. Put away devices that might distract you so that you can be fully present when interacting with your child. For example, you might get on the floor to stack blocks, play games, or have a tea party.
2. Encourage Independent Play
A fundamental aspect of the Montessori toddler program is hands-on, self-directed learning. Children are encouraged to explore, make choices, and do things for themselves. This is how they become capable and confident.
It’s important to nurture your child by providing them with contact, love, and attention, but you also need to let them experience the world around them independently. This can be safely accomplished by creating an enclosed play area stocked with toys suitable for your child’s age.
When children are engaged in independent play, just observe. Allow them space to immerse themselves in the experience without interruption or assistance.
3. Carefully Consider the Language You Use
It’s a common misconception that toddlers are unaware of what’s being said around them. Just because they’re learning to speak doesn’t mean they don’t yet understand.
Not only will children pick up the words and phrases you use, but also your tone. Think about curating your language in a way that maximizes what your toddler is exposed to.
Reading to your child is important at this age, as is answering their questions and explaining things. You should avoid using baby talk or dumbed-down speech that might only delay language development.
4. Pay Attention to Your Toddler’s Interests
You might not be interested in a ladybug crawling on the ground or the colors in a rock. You’ve seen these things many times and learned a lot about the natural world, so your focus is elsewhere.
However, these experiences are brand-new to your toddler. The world is full of wonders that they want to share with you. Encouraging curiosity and engagement involves paying attention to your child’s interests.
5. Model Positive Behaviors
Because many experiences are new to toddlers, they can be easily influenced by their environment. This is true for both positive and negative experiences, which may stick with them for years.
By modeling positive behaviors, you help children learn how to behave, especially through repetition. You can also plan for positive experiences and find ways to approach potentially negative events in positive ways.
Consider a Montessori Toddler Program Today
Make the most of the lessons your child learns in a Montessori toddler program by carrying on the principles that guide this teaching philosophy at home. At Montessori West, we’ve provided authentic Montessori education to the South Bay since 1974. Our teachers can help you find the best ways to support your toddler’s development. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a tour.
