How to Set Up a Playroom to Improve Your Kid's Potential
The play space and the placement of the toys in it are all about creating that special area where a child can explore their individual interests in that early formative stage of its life, and hopefully accumulate skills that will assist it for many years to come.
HOW DO YOU ACCOMPLISH THIS TASK?
IT IS ALL ABOUT QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY. You may think that you are doing what’s best for your child by providing them with multiple toy options, often many in the same category, but in reality, options do more harm than good. A child is likely to have a hard time concentrating when numerous toys with sounds or lights are put before it, many of which may be better suited to different age groups. Such a plethora of playthings can distract children and prevents them from getting the most out of their playtime. HOWEVER, THERE IS A SOLUTION AT HAND: A MONTESSORI INSPIRED PLAYROOM!
1. KEEP IT SIMPLE
The key is to simplify. A Montessori playroom is a simple, clean space with a limited number of selected age-appropriate toys designed to help the child develop skills such as their fine gross and motor skills. It is a place that promotes engagement as opposed to just entertainment. Since toys play such an important role in the development of children, an organized setting is essential. Playrooms are designed in a minimalist style with soothing colors.
2. BE ORGANIZED
When children are going through their developmental periods, they respond best with routine and repetition. In order to ensure that toddlers have order in their lives, toys should routinely be placed in the same spots. When each toy has a place, the child begins to learn how to take responsibility and care for their toys. Shelving units are installed so that each toy has its own space and this system prevents the play area from becoming cluttered.
3. KEEP IT FRESH
Toys should be rotated every few days or weeks in order to ensure that the child retains an interest in them. Toys should be chosen carefully since they all accomplish different things.
4. KEEP IT ORGANIC
Studies recommend toys made out of wood and other natural materials due to the fact that the children have been found to more easily connect with such materials.
5. MAKE SURE THE TOYS ARE SEEN
Try to keep the toys on low shelves to give the children the opportunity to choose their toys and engage with them. Typically, Montessori spaces are created with low furniture.
6. CREATE SPACE
It is important to make sure that your child is an open play space. By designing it this way, children are given the space to work independently and explore their environments. Children who are given space to move around can more freely engage with their specialized toys.
