Over the holidays, Renee Kohley of Raising Generation Nourished put together a fabulous post called “Batteries NOT Needed Gift Guide: 25 Montessori Inspired Gift Ideas for Kids.”
While many of the items are for bigger kids (my little one is currently only 9 months), here’s my favorites for the baby and toddler set:
Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set
First of all, fruit and veggies – YES! What better way to foster healthy eating habits than through toys? I’ve already purchased this for my 9-month-old and she loves it. Every morning while I make breakfast she sits in her play area by the kitchen and pulls the toys out of their buckets, tosses them around, and even puts them in her little toy frying pan!
60-Piece Standard Unit Blocks
Okay, who doesn’t love blocks? And I personally love these more than Legos because they’re simpler and (in my mind) leave more to Baby’s imagination. I haven’t gotten these for my infant girl yet, but as a toddler these would be perfect.
3D Feel & Find Play Set
These are just adorable, and perfect for little infant hands all the way up to older children. Renee has a great suggestion for a game that older children can play with this set – check out her post!
Threading Buttons & Spools
Okay, this one’s next on my list for Baby, probably when she’s a tiny bit older and more nimble with her little hands. Although she’d probably love it now. She loves string and anything she can put in her mouth so this is perfect!
Practical Life Puzzle Boards
Okay, these are by far my favorite just because they look so cool! There’s a Latches and Locks board with polished metal latches and clasps for little hands to practice on, and there’s a Basic Skills board for Baby to practice lacing, zipping, buckling, snapping, and more. What a great way to learn such necessary skills!
Again, Renee’s list is a full 25 items whereas I just cherry-picked my fave five. Head on over there if you’d like to see the entire list.
Have fun!
