There are so many amazing Montessori baby toys and play ideas out there. With so many choices, and a brand new baby, it can be difficult to decide when to introduce what. So, I thought I would create a visual timeline for Montessori friendly play for the first year of life! This is the first post in a series of posts, broken up in 3 month sections. Below the timeline are some resources to learn more about each of these materials.
Now, this is just one possible way to introduce Montessori materials to your baby. You do not need everything on this list, and your baby might not enjoy everything on these lists at the exact time listed. These are approximate and will change slightly based on each individual child! Use this as a guide and not a strict schedule!
This is also not meant to include EVERYTHING a baby could use at this time. It gives you a general idea of the types of things a baby might enjoy at this time, but not necessarily a comprehensive list of everything available.
Here's a look at Montessori friendly play from birth to 3 months!
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Newborn to 1 Month
Black and White Images
These can start at birth, and can take a variety of forms. They are an easy DIY, or can be purchased. These are placed at baby's level when baby is awake and alert.Example: Black & White Board Book | DIY Black and White | Baby with Black and White Images
For more information: Black and White Images
High Contrast Mobiles
The Munari is a traditional Montessori choice. But, other high contrast mobiles have also been popular with my babies. These start a week or two after birth when baby is fed, comfy, and awake.
For more information: First Mobiles
1 Month to 2 Months
Octahedron Mobile
Another traditional Montessori choice and my personal favorite mobile. This is also an easy DIY and was very popular with my babies. This can be introduced around 4 weeks.
For more information: The Octahedron Mobile
Gobbi Mobile
The Gobbi is another traditional Montessori mobile used before a baby has much control over his/her movements. It continues to strengthen visual perception and concentration skills. This can be introduced around 6 to 7 weeks.
For more information: The Gobbi Mobile
First Tactile Mobile
The example is a bell on a ribbon which moves as a baby voluntarily or involuntarily bats at the mobile. This could also be done with a small ball, or other hanging object - preferably something to bat at, and something that makes a sound when it moves.
For more information: Montessori Baby Tactile Mobiles | Discovering the Hand
2 Months to 3 Months
Tented Fabric
This is a perfect first grasping toy since it's easy to get a hold of, no matter how it is approached. This can be done with play silks, washcloths, baby paper, or any available (mouthing safe) fabric.
Simple Grasping Rattles
Simple objects for your baby to grab a hold of can be introduced as your baby's grip matures. These should be kept simple and light so baby can be successful. They can also include a simple noise to help baby connect the motion with a sound.
For more information: Discovering the Hand | First Toys
Hanging Toys and Play Gym
A progression of tactile mobiles, you can add more complex objects for looking at/batting at/ kicking. These movements still might not be super purposeful, but it adds a new layer for your baby as he/she develops control over his/her body.
Examples: Simple Toy | Toy Hanging | Baby with Play Gym | Simple Toy Options | Baby with simple hanging toy | Baby with chime
For more information: Using a Play Gym
Grasping Rings
Thicker and heavier rings and rattles can be introduced as a baby's grasp matures. These may or may not include sound and are often brought to the mouth with one or both hands.
For more information: Discovering the Hand
Dancers Mobile
The dancers mobile is another of the traditional Montessori visual mobiles. It introduces more complex shapes and movement to the mobiles. It can easily be DIYed.
And, there you have it! An overview of Montessori newborns. Playtime at this age is limited because cuddling/sleeping/feeding takes so much time. But, there are simple ways to incorporate Montessori play from birth!
Did/does your newborn enjoy these materials? Anything you would add?
