A Montessori Gift Guide
Teachers everywhere are asked the best gifts for children during the holiday seasons! What will help my child grow? What will help them learn?
This year, we have pulled out some items provided by For Small Hands – a Montessori-inspired collection of ideas! Purchasing items directly from this link or catalog supports your child’s education and The Glen, which will receive a 10% credit for future classroom purchases.
Be sure always to use School Code #120507!
Our seasoned professionals have made the following recommendations:
Suggestions for Families of Birth to Three Students — curated by Ms. Jess, Birth to Three Program Director and Lead Teacher:
Yoga Pretzels Card Deck: Toddlers need to move, but it doesn’t always have to be loud. Large-body movement can be quiet, controlled, focused, and tire out the body and the brain. This is why we LOVE yoga cards. Just put out 4-5 cards at a time so they’re not overwhelmed, and watch your toddler get their big energy out in a quiet way—it’s possible!
Junior Ramp Racer: We love this track because of its size. It is small and does not overwhelm the child’s senses with its size, noise level, and speed, allowing them to focus on the task. This little track grabs their attention and keeps it for a sustained period. AND it doesn’t drive the adult in the room crazy, a bonus!
Bright Window Washing Activity: Window/mirror washing is a favorite in the classroom. It’s okay if you don’t have a window low enough for your child to wash. A sliding glass door will work, a storm door, a mirror—none of those—use it in the bathtub—there are endless options for this activity!
Suggestions for Families of Children’s House Students (ages 4-6)– curated by Ms. Lori, Program Director and Lead Teacher
If independence is part of your parenting plan, consider a child-sized wheelbarrow to help with fall leaf gathering. For Small Hands offers a variety of child-sized ”do it yourself” tools—brooms, dustpans, and sweepers—that are always popular in the classroom!
Musical Instruments are always a favorite of children this age! For Small Hands offers a variety of musical instruments, including xylophone-style instruments, a wooden drum, and various other percussion options. They have a ukulele with instructional materials.
Finally, a do-it-together Marble Run Race Track will give you thousands of hours of family time building different tracks and designs! This track can grow as your child grows, too!
Suggestions for Families of Elementary Students (ages 6-12) — curated by Ms. Susy, Lower Elementary Teacher
Roller Coaster Challenge: A fun brain teaser puzzle that feeds into developing critical thinking skills and STEM subjects like science and engineering.
Rainbow Loom or Peg Loom: Yarn is a favorite of many elementary students. They love making useful things like hats from colorful yarn. It also helps to build fine motor skills.
Qwirkle – part dominoes (matching) and part chess (planning ahead and strategy, this game is great for family fun – of all ages!
If you are still looking for ideas, check out our post from a few years back – Glen Teachers’ Favorite Things! A Gift Guide for Any Season. You will see some repeats – oldies but goodies!