Most households accumulate a lot of toys, often as a result of excited new parents or generous gifts from family and well-wishers, or usually a combination of the two! However, Montessori households embrace a minimalist approach.
So, what do you do with all the toys that you have?
Toy rotation is the answer!
How to Do It:
1. Getting Started
Gather all the toys in one place, such as your baby's play mat or on the carpet in your living room. Choose a day when you have several hours to tackle this task.
2. Evaluate
Examine and evaluate each one of the toys. Set aside those that are not age-appropriate – either too advanced or too simple for your child.
3. Categorize
Group similar items together – such as art and craft supplies, transport toys, animal figurines, etc. You can also categorize them based on skills, such as fine motor, math, language, etc. Use trays or baskets for storage and label them for easy access.
4. Set Up Your Shelf
At the beginning of the week, choose one item from each category to ensure holistic skill development. Use trays to organize the materials. Leave some work unfinished to pique your child’s interest and encourage them to complete it.
5. Observe
Note what your child engages with – what they like and dislike, and what is too easy or too challenging. Pay attention to toys they frequently return to.
6. Rotate
After a week, it’s time to rotate! If your child finds something too easy, step it up with a more challenging toy in the same category. If they really enjoyed something, you can leave it on the shelf for another week. Follow your child’s lead as you plan the next toy rotation.
7. Toy Swap
Consider a toy swap with friends or family members who share a similar approach and mindset.
8. Get Creative
Once your child outgrows a toy, don’t discard it immediately. Look for different ways your child can use the same materials to develop new skills.
9. Create a Schedule
It’s easy to forget to rotate your child’s toys. Create a schedule and set reminders on your calendar to ensure you do it consistently.
Implementing toy rotation can transform your home and enhance your child’s learning experience!