The basis of the Montessori approach is creating an environment that helps to encourage the child to become independent, promotes hands-on learning and cognitive abilities, and allows kids to develop at their own pace. Along with various developmental materials that can be used in the classroom or nursery, this approach suggests using furniture that matches the child's growth and needs. In particular, we are talking about the Montessori bed, which, thanks to its special design, meets the child's real needs and the principles of creating a comfortable, safe, and functional space in the children's room.
Analysis of the Concept of the Montessori Bed
According to Montessori philosophy, the wooden Montessori bed allows kids to explore the world around them from an early age and climb in and out of bed independently without help. Resting and getting out of bed help children learn to monitor their feelings, emotions, and states. It leads to early formation of healthy habits because kids do not wait for their parents to tell them it is time to go to bed or get up. They can feel when they are tired and want to rest or when they are ready for study, creativity, or active play.
The Montessori bed also emphasizes minimalism, focusing on natural materials and simple design. It helps to create a calming and peaceful environment that supports restful sleep and a sense of security. Another important feature of the Montessori bed for infants is its functionality. It is never “just a bed.” It can always be used in some other way, making the room even more comfortable and interesting for the baby.
For example, a bed-house can become a tent for a small adventure lover or a mysterious corner for a little reader. The most active kids will appreciate the opportunity to cling to the crossbars, climb on them, hang, and so on. Let them do it because this way, strength, agility, and coordination improve naturally, and the stress level, on the contrary, drops rapidly.
So, as a result, your child becomes skilled, independent, brave, and calm. And this is just one example. If we consider beds for newborns, they have side rails and doors and can be used as a playpen. So parents do not need to buy both, because one item is enough, which will perform different functions, depending on the situation.
Basic principles of Montessori
To check whether the Montessori cot really follows the Montessori approach, let's remember these rules.
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Autonomy and natural development of the child are key;
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The environment should promote the child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development;
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The place to sleep should be as comfortable and safe as the surrounding space of the baby;
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Childhood is not a draft of life. So, a child is a person with unique character, interests, and abilities.
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An aesthetically attractive, orderly, and functional environment contributes to taste formation and helps children easily navigate in it and independently perform tasks according to their age.
The Montessori approach prioritizes child's natural development, independence and self-reliance. And to create an appropriate environment, the baby's room must be properly furnished. Start furnishing by choosing a Montessori bed for newborns, and gradually add the elements necessary for a child at a particular age.
How does the Montessori bed reflect these principles?
The Montessori bed reflects several principles of the Montessori approach to education, including respect for the child, a prepared environment, and child-centered learning.
In particular, it is about such aspects as
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Respect for the kids' autonomy and encouraging them to play an active role in shaping their sleep patterns.
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Safety thanks to the downward distance from the floor and protective rails (in models for newborns and toddlers).
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The freedom to wake up or rest when kids need to, not at parents' behest. It fosters a sense of autonomy in children and teaches them responsibility.
In these ways, the Montessori bed contributes to the child's comfortable rest and early development.
What are the main elements of a Montessori bed?
Following the general principles of the Montessori philosophy, different models of beds have different constructions and designs. So let's focus on the main elements:
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Strong wooden frame. It can be a structure with low legs, equipped with a slat system, or a floor bed. However, it always has a strong frame that can withstand high loads, considering that children can not only sleep on the bed but also jump like a trampoline.
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Minimalistic design. A Montessori bed always has a simple frame with clean lines that help to create a peaceful environment.
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Protective rails in the Montessori bed for newborns. Over time, these rails can be removed, but in the early stages, they protect the baby from involuntarily rolling out of bed.
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Models in the form of houses or square beds have side and top rails that can be used for climbing. These elements are not mandatory, but these options significantly expand the bed's functionality.
Benefits of using a Montessori bed for a child
Based on the features of the Montessori bed, you can evaluate the full list of benefits that the child (and his parents) receive:
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Children can satisfy their needs, and parents can rest longer. When the children wake up, they can stand up on their own, play, or come to their parent's room instead of crying in the crib and feeling lonely.
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Sleep in a comfortable bed is stronger, so the child rests well and grows healthy.
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Children fall asleep easier on a low-to-the-ground bed, as they feel safer that way. Accordingly, parents spend less time and nerves while putting the baby to sleep.
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The bed promotes physical development because your kids can rest and perform various exercises here.
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The design of the bed promotes the development of imagination and creativity, as the bed can be turned into a tent decorated with beautiful lanterns or… Just ask the kids what they want to do with it.
At the same time, the child gets a safe space because the bed is close to the floor, has no sharp corners, has a strong structure, and is made of natural materials.
Development of independence and responsibility
Children can track their feelings and decide when to rest. Likewise, they can wake up and get out of bed on their own without the help of adults.
Development of motor skills
By clinging to the side and top rails, children develop gross motor skills and strengthen muscles. Even babies can grab the side rails. They are made of natural wood and are well-polished. So it can be a valuable tactile experience.
Development of self-esteem and self-discipline
Such a bed helps the kids feel that it is their belonging and space. From now on, they can prepare a place to sleep and cover it themselves. In this way, valuable rituals are formed that improve children's self-esteem and self-discipline.
How to choose the right Montessori bed for your child
When choosing a Montessori bed, you need to consider the main factors such as size, design, and safety. At the same time, consider the child's age and needs to select an option that will provide children with all the advantages listed above.
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Size and design of the bed. The bed should fit well into the space of the children's room while providing enough space for a comfortable position during sleep. As for the design, it is purely a matter of taste. Almost all of Montessori beds perfectly harmonize with the Scandinavian style and most modern interior options.
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The choice of material. When it comes to a children's bed, it must be a product made of natural wood, and there can be no compromises.
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Choice of a model. You can choose what you or your toddler likes best. Among the available options, you will find concise models, cabin beds, playpens for babies, etc.
Conclusion
A Montessori bed promotes the development of a child's sense of independence, responsibility, and self-respect and provides a safe and comfortable sleeping environment. To choose the best possible option, pay attention to the product's aesthetics, functionality, safety, and size. Arrange the kids’ room up to their age, interests, preferences, and abilities. In such a space, children grow up healthy, confident, and independent, which Dr. Montessori sought when creating her educational method.