Montessori Babies

As the owner of Little Red Robin, Inc, a Montessori materials company for infants and toddlers, people often ask my advice when giving a gift for expectant parents or for their own child. They ask what they need to buy for the baby, what's important, and so on. I tell them they really don't need a lot of things, but instead, they need the right attitude for raising a child. To allow the child the right to movement, not to put them in playpens and swings and infant seats (except for car seats for safety, of course!). I tell them to be sure to give the child plenty of floor time, to develop their movement, and that an acrylic mirror next to a quilt on the floor allows for self discovery. It can be one of the ones I sell, or one you buy at Target, as long as it's acrylic and safe. Children need to be spoken to in complete sentences, with a normal tone of voice, and we need to explain to the child what we are doing with them. For example, "I see your diaper is wet. I'm going to change you now so you are more comfortable." You need to take the time to learn about child development so you can create the right environment for your child at home. You need to observe your child so you understand what she is all about, what she is doing, what she needs. Give your child a simple, ordered room with materials that are beautifully made of the highest quality. Don't buy several cheap plastic toys from China, rather, a select few made of natural materials. Take your child out into the world so she can learn about life, rather than trying to create scenarios at home. Take her for a walk in the woods, allow your toddler to walk at her own pace so she can explore and make new discoveries and see the beauty of the world around her. Let your child stand on a stool next to you or your husband as you prepare food, and give a simple and age-appropriate task. Allow your child to make his own choices of clothing that you have provided in a low drawer, and respect his taste! These are simply a few of the things to consider or things to share with those who are expecting a new baby.... you don't need a lot of things for your baby, you need the right attitude, knowledge, and home environment. That is the biggest gift of all. Until later.... susan