How to Choose a Montessori Floor Bed In 2024

One of the key principles of Montessori is respect for the child and this is also the main consideration in designing a Montessori inspired bedroom. 

This begins with the child’s sleep space which is fundamental to this concept.

The traditional Montessori floor bed allows freedom of movement, promotes independence, empowers the child, and permits free access to other components of the room itself.

A Montessori floor bed is going to allow the ability for your child to make their own choices. This is the opposite of the confines of a crib where parental assistance is necessary for sleeping, waking, and even play. 

What is a Montessori Bed 

Montessori Bed

There is technically nothing that is classified as a Montessori bed. However, there are beds inspired by the general principles that make up the Montessori Method. Dr. Maria Montessori, believed that children thrive when given the freedom to move and learn independently. 

So that means a Montessori bed is a mattress without limiting railings around it, yet close enough to the floor so that your child can get in and out of it without assistance.

When to Start Using a Montessori Floor Bed

Montessori Floor Bed

There is no specific age for transitioning your child to a Montessori floor bed, but most Montessorians recommend doing so between 5 and 10 months of age.

This is around the time babies have started to sit up and move around on their own.

There are two ways of introducing your child to a floor bed. Some parents choose to move their baby from their bassinets or cradles to a floor bed right away, while some transition them from a crib to a floor bed between the age of 1 and 3.

The advantage of starting early is that you never have to buy a crib and also the child gets to make use of their developing mind as early as possible. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Montessori Floor Bed

Montessori Floor Bed image

  1. Space - Consider the space you’re dealing with for a bed. If your child’s room is particularly small, you may want to focus on a mattress only or a very simple frame that will take up very little space.   
  2. Style - When you start looking for the perfect floor bed, you’ll find that there are a lot of options out there. You will want to choose one that fits with the style of your child's room.
  3. Safety - Keep in mind that safety is a huge priority in a Montessori room. If your child likes to climb, you may want to avoid beds that have tall frames, like the cute house beds or tee-pee types you’ll find all over the internet. 
  4. Entry - The point of the floor bed is to give them freedom of movement, so it’s important that your child can get in and out of the bed easily and safely. You don't want them getting hurt in the process, or get injured if they roll off. Be sure the bed is truly low enough and remember to think about whether they can enter the bed as well.
  5. Airflow - Since Montessori beds are so low, it’s important that there is enough space for air to flow through. This is especially important if you live in a humid climate because you will want to prevent mold from growing on the mattress.
  6. Materials - Montessori materials are meant to be used for their intended purpose only. A bed should be no different. A bed is meant for sleep, quiet rest, and cuddles. It should be made of natural materials and nothing fancy. A simple frame will do.

Final Words

 

Montessori floor beds promote independence and freedom within limits. Children have more space to explore, and they also learn appropriate boundaries of that freedom. Children also feel secure, and capable of putting themselves to sleep.

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