Many parents are scared off or overwhelmed when they first learn about Montessori.

All the unique materials, instructions, and expectations can be overwhelming.

Many people think:

• you need all wooden toys
• your child should be helping you to prep every meal
• children are expected to quickly clean up each activity once they've finished with it

But that's not the whole picture and it's certainly not that perfect or easy...

While it is true that Montessori environments are structured and focused on order, it’s not accurate to say that these aspects are applied in a strict, inflexible manner, i.e. 'every child should or must do X in a Montessori classroom."

A very popular Montessori motto is to “follow the child”, and we couldn’t possibly do this without being a little flexible.

Why Order is SO Important to Children

The reason why Montessori classrooms are so structured is because Dr. Montessori found that children thrive when they know what to expect.

Clear routines and consistent limits help them feel secure and confident, which actually gives them more freedom to explore and learn independently. 

These limits aren’t about harsh punishments or rigid rules, but gently guiding children toward respectful, thoughtful decisions on their own.

Here are some examples of what freedom within limits looks like in the classroom:

• Children are free to explore the materials in a variety of ways, as long as they’re doing so safely and respectfully, i.e. not throwing or misusing them.
• Children are free to choose whatever activity they like, as long as another child is not using it.  If a child is using it, they wait for them to be finished.  
• Children are free to move around the classroom, as long as they’re not disrupting their classmates or moving unsafely, i.e. running.

Freedom Within Limits Takes Time...

While children are learning what the freedoms and limitations of the classroom are, they’re throwing materials, bumping into classmates, taking work that’s already in use…because they’re children. 

The teachers understand this. 

Children are not punished when they do these things, they’re gently reminded of the rules, redirected to different activities, are given some extra attention from the teacher, etc. 

The limits of the classroom are not designed for children to think they’re “bad.”

The same can be done at home and the great thing about Montessori at home is that you can follow the parts that you like and leave the rest.

Implement the ideas that make sense to your family. 

Montessori is not about perfection or obedience. It’s about doing what’s best for your child and following their natural development.