9 Montessori-Inspired Christmas Gifts!

In this article, we share some gift ideas for toys and activities inspired by the Montessori method. If you’ve already bought a few presents for your little one, a wonderful idea is to open one gift each morning until Christmas Day or New Year’s!

Let’s take a look at the best Montessori gift ideas for toddlers…

#1 – Experiences

Experiences are truly the best gift for all ages! While toys are often quickly forgotten, experiences can create lasting memories. The type of experience you choose for your child can be based on their current interests. Some ideas include:

• Children’s museum

• Trip to the zoo or a farm

• Amusement park

• Puppet show or children’s theater

• Swimming lessons, kids’ yoga, etc.

#2 – Toddler Cleaning Kit

Yes, really! A practical gift for little ones is a toddler-sized cleaning set. It’s helpful if it includes a broom, mop, duster, brush, and dustpan—plus a stand to keep everything neat and organized.

Cleaning is a wonderful Montessori practical life activity, and a “cleaning kit” gives your child four different ways to help around the house.

It also supports fine and gross motor skills (moving, brushing, putting items back on the shelf) while giving them a sense of purpose as they contribute to daily chores.

#3 – Toddler Table and Chairs

If your child doesn’t yet have a small table and chair set they can access independently, this would be a fantastic gift!

At their table, they can do a variety of Montessori activities, bring a toy from the playroom, draw, play, eat, and more. And nothing is cuter than two toddlers sitting together at their own little table!

For toddler tables & chairs click HERE

#4 – Books

Books are always a wonderful Christmas gift for everyone.

Montessori-friendly books should focus on realism, the real world, and contain rich vocabulary for toddlers. It’s also best to choose books with beautiful illustrations that both parents and children will enjoy.

#5 – Learning Tower

A learning tower is like a sturdy stool or platform that allows children to reach counter height and participate in everyday activities alongside their parents. It’s a Montessori “must-have” since without it, a toddler can’t see what you’re doing in the kitchen or join in on practical daily life tasks (like meal prep, dishwashing, etc.).

Toddlers also love enjoying their snack at the tower after helping prepare it with you!

For a Learning Tower click HERE

#6 – Indoor Climbing Activities

Toddlers love to move and climb, so a gift that supports their gross motor development makes a wonderful Christmas present. A great idea is to create a playroom or “movement corner” where they can build strength and coordination.

This can include items like a climbing triangle designed according to Emmi Pikler’s principles, a balance board that helps with coordination and energy release, or a reversible slide that doubles as a climbing wall.

For a Balance Board click HERE
For a Climbing Triangle click HERE
For a Reversible Slide click HERE

#7 – Musical Instruments

Children’s musical instruments are often overlooked, but they’re incredibly valuable. Research shows that learning and playing instruments greatly supports a child’s development.

There are many affordable options such as wooden maracas, wrist bells, tambourines, and xylophones. All of these are wonderful and very easy for toddlers to enjoy!

#8 – Art Supplies

Art materials are another excellent gift to spark creativity. In Montessori, art plays an important role in self-expression.

Great options include easels, stickers, watercolors, crayons, markers, and glue for collages or simple crafts (like adding spots to a drawing of a cow).

#9 – Wooden Toys

You don’t need wooden toys to practice Montessori at home, but they’re certainly a beautiful addition.

Though they can be more expensive, wooden toys are durable, long-lasting, and keep good resale value. Options include stacking toys, puzzles, push toys, and more.

These are just a few Montessori-inspired Christmas gift ideas for toddlers. There are so many practical and meaningful presents you can buy for your little one—but remember, the most precious gift of all is the time you spend together!