12 Montessori-Inspired Ways to Make Christmas Memorable
/“The child is both a hope and a promise for mankind.”
Happy Winter Break! With this first half of the school year behind us, we encourage you to do as we will be for the next couple of weeks: rest, relax, reset, and reflect.
Academy of the Winds and its families are such blessings to us. We are honored to be a part of the development of each and every student entrusted to us. This break is a wonderful time to reflect on this, as well as make sure we come back in the new year refreshed and ready to continue the great work that’s been happening.
As parents, we have this unique time to unschedule our families and embrace quality time together.
May this post be a way to add intentionality...not stress...into this time with your children.
P.S. Feel free to share pictures on our Facebook page or tag @academyofthewinds on Instagram! We’d love to see the memories you’re making at home!
Winter Activities and Crafts
The goal is to keep the pace relaxed and fun. These activities should be low-prep, low-stress, and high on quality time. Using materials you likely already have at home, you can work side-by-side with your child knowing you’re making memories and building skills.
The internet has an infinite number of ideas out there. Here we’ve collected a few that are age-appropriate and allow for some independence.
Toddlers
Jingle Bell Pouring –
Using two small/miniature pouring pitchers, transfer mini jingle bells from one pitcher to another.
Ornament Stuffing –
Stuffing felt pom-pom balls in a clear bulb ornament makes for great fine-motor work and a cute tree ornament.
Snowflake Tracing –
Trace onto pre-cut paper a 6-pointed, line star. (You can choose to help your child do this or do it ahead of time yourself.) Have your child paint glue over the top of the traced lines. On the wet glue, your child can sprinkle salt (or glitter if you’re brave) to create a snowflake
Primary and Elementary Age
Snowflake Cutting –
Help your child fold a coffee filter in half, then in thirds. He can now cut out shapes and designs from the edges. Unfold and hang for a snowflake decoration.
Practice Present Wrapping –
Find a small empty box or two that you can tape shut. Cut wrapping paper to fit the box. Model for your child (this is less about verbal directions and more about slow, careful modeling) how to wrap the box, making clean folds around the corners. If possible, use re-stick tape (highlighter tape also works well) to tape the wrapping paper. When this is done, the child can unwrap the box and do it himself. The clean folds from previous wrapping should help guide your child’s wrapping. You can also choose to trace these folds in marker to give your child a visual reference.
Any Age
Ornament “Painting” –
Again using a clear bulb ornament, help your child drip a little paint inside. Have your child turn and twirl the bulb to get the paint to spread. This could also be a great color-mixing experiment.
Mini-Tree Decorating –
Consider letting one of your Pinterest-inspired mini-trees (ideally child height) become the designated child tree. Place a basket of ornaments at the base of the tree. This is now a tree that can be decorated and undecorated as much as your child desires.
Christmas Prep with your Child
Don’t leave your child out of the thrill of the holidays! Here are some great ways to let him know he’s an important part of the celebration.
Bake - Put on some music and expect a mess!
Clean - Have a hand-held or child-sized broom? Work side-by-side with your child to make the house sparkle and shine. (Fun fact: kids seem to love spraying and washing windows. You’re welcome.)
Set the table - Model one table setting for your child, then let him finish the rest. A printable outline can also be a great tool for him to use.
Serve - Guests or not, serving others is a great way to involve your child. Have him choose a dish that he serves to everyone.
Shovel - Fresh air + gross motor work + chores complete. What more could you want from a winter activity?!
Don’t Forget to Observe!
A big part of a Montessori approach is observation. This is a great time to practice this and become more in-tune to your child’s development.
While you work and do activities with your child, observe:
What hand he uses
Finger strength and coordination
How he holds his tools
Which aspects of the activities or work hold his interest
Which aspects of the activities or work frustrate him
Does he sit or stand while working
Is his body peaceful or fidgety
What he expresses verbally and through body language
These observations can help inform you, the parent, as to what your child craves developmentally. This is a big part of the Montessori teacher’s role as well. The more we observe each child, the more we can offer an environment that meets his needs.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays
From all of us here at Academy of the Winds, Merry Christmas!! We consider it a true gift and honor to work alongside our families that make us a school community. May your holidays be filled with joy and memories.