I had never heard of the Montessori method until I found out there was an AMS Montessori school close to my home. At first, I thought the whole concept sounded crazy. I only had one child and couldn’t imagine sending him away from me to work on his “pouring” skills. However, since I didn’t know any families with kids, when he was 2 and a half I decided that he needed some sort of socialization.
What I first read about Montessori sounded interesting, but not necessarily compelling. However, the book that really made me believe in the teaching philosophy was Montessori: The Science Behind the Genius. The author discusses all the scientifically proven benefits of a prepared learning environment. She shows the advantages of Montessori-style child-directed learning, where the child gets to decide what they are going to learn without being graded, tested, or even corrected. The Montessori material available to the child is self-correcting, such that the teacher does not need to tell the child when they are making a mistake. It is a hands-on environment of exploration and discovery intended to stimulate a child’s curiosity.
I literally went from being a skeptic to a convert in the few hours it took me to read that book. I enrolled my son and even began to question whether or not I would eventually send my son to the public school as planned. Ultimately, my son attended Montessori preschool for 3 years (from 2.5 to 5.5 years old) and my second child attended for 1 year. Ultimately I decided to homeschool, but it was not because I had criticism of the Montessori method.
I think a lot of the benefits of a Montessori education can be obtained in the home environment. For that reason (and also because I think it’s really instructive, hands-on, useful material), I’ve been very interested in finding ways to make Montessori material at home.
When I first read about Montessori nomenclature cards for elementary age students, I was fascinated. I don’t think flashcards are the best way for young children to learn, but as a graduate student, I relied on them heavily. I made these Montessori-inspired cards as a quick and easy, low-pressure, self-correcting way for older kids (and myself) to memorize useful information.
The Montessori math material is among my favorite hands-on material that I’ve seen in a Montessori classroom. I fell in love with it so much that I immediately went home and started working on my own.
Below are all of the Montessori and Montessori-style tools, activities, and printables that I’ve made so far.
Related Links:
Learning Activities for Kids
Homemade Fun for Kids
Charlotte Mason Learning
Michelle has a PhD in Engineering from Stanford University and a Bachelor's Degree from the California Institute of Technology. 
Hello Michelle,
My name is Cathy and I just needed to take a minute to say thank you for starting your website. I have become a follower and absolutely love the activities you offer your readers. I am a (rookie) homeschooling mom of 2 active boys ages 4 and 6. We have enjoyed many of the resources you graciously provided. The time and effort you put into your work is greatly appreciated. Again, thank you so much for all you do. Cathy.
Cathy, that is so kind of you to say. I’m glad you’ve been able to use some of my resources. I have a 2, 4, and 6 year old with a baby on the way, so I haven’t been able to create new resources as often as I’d like, but I’m hoping that since I have long term plans to homeschool my kids, over the years I’ll be able to gradually build up the resources offered. Thank you so much again for your support and thoughtful words. I really, truly appreciate it. :)
Montessori’s nomenclature cards for primary school kids immediately piqued my interest. I
I hope these resources are helpful to you!
By allowing children to learn at their own pace, make their own choices, and discover through firsthand experience, this approach nurtures a natural curiosity and love of learning.
I completely agree! ❤️