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Homeschool Montessori

Montessori activities for 12 to 18 months

By Owen WrenLast updated

New walkers want to do what they see you do. Short, real tasks with one or two steps fit best, offered at a low shelf or sink with a stool.

Start with Hand Washing, the work on this list with the youngest starting age.

Illustration: a low Montessori shelf of pale wood in a quiet room, with six practical life and sensorial works each set out on its own tray.
IllustrationA low shelf set for the morning, one work to a tray.

On the shelf at this age

1 lesson whose typical age overlaps 12 to 18 months

Lessons for 12 to 18 months, grouped by area
Lesson and materialsTypical age
Practical Life
Hand WashingHand-Washing Station
15 months to 3.5 years

When most of this shelf feels easy for your child, look one step ahead: 18 to 24 months lists what usually comes next.