How to start Montessori Preschool in 5 easy steps!
Feb 06, 2025How to Start Montessori Homeschool in 5 Steps
Are you considering Montessori homeschooling but don’t know where to begin? The Montessori method is a child-centered, hands-on approach to learning that fosters independence and curiosity. Starting a Montessori homeschool may seem overwhelming at first, but by following these five steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating an enriching and engaging learning environment for your child.
1. Choose a Curriculum
While traditional Montessori education doesn’t rely on a rigid day by day curriculum, the methodology follows specific scope and sequence of lessons for each subject. While you can choose to DIY the curriculum by sourcing resources from blogs, the internet, and social media, I recommend buying a curriculum from a trained guide to save time, money and to make sure you don't miss a lesson or detail in the sequence. When looking for a curriculum you will want to find one that:
I created the Montessori Preschool Academy to give parents a comprehensive course and curriculum to do Preschool at home easily! Learn More Here
2. Assess Your Child’s Needs
Montessori education is all about following the child. Once you have a Montessori curriculum, you need to take time to observe and assess your child’s developmental readiness. You need to figure out where your child is at in the lesson sequence to be able to lesson plan. Also ask yourself these questions:
- What topics spark their curiosity?
- Do they prefer hands-on activities, reading, or exploration?
- Are there any developmental delays or advanced skills to consider?
- What life skills can be integrated into learning?
This step ensures that your homeschool aligns with your child’s unique learning style and helps you tailor lessons accordingly.
3. Create a Lesson Plan
Montessori lessons follow a three-period structure: introduction, exploration, and mastery. When lesson planning, focus on these main subjects:
- Practical Life: Everyday tasks that build independence (pouring, dressing, cooking).
- Sensorial Activities: Hands-on materials that refine the senses.
- Language: Phonics-based reading, writing, and storytelling.
- Math: Concrete learning using Montessori math materials.
- Culture & Science: Geography, biology, history, and cultural studies.
Because Montessori follows the child's lead you won't make a day by day lesson plan, rather you will know what lessons your child is ready to learn and present them when the child is ready. Keep lessons flexible—observe your child’s engagement and adjust accordingly. Montessori learning is interest-led, so be prepared to follow their natural curiosity.
In my course the Montessori Preschool Academy I teach parents exactly how to lesson plan to their child's needs.
4. Get Materials
Each lesson includes hands-on materials. Montessori materials are specially designed to encourage self-directed learning. While authentic Montessori materials can be expensive, there are affordable alternatives, DIY options, and second-hand resources available. Consider investing in:
- Practical life tools (child-sized kitchen utensils, cleaning tools)
- Sandpaper letters and movable alphabets for language
- Golden beads or number rods for math
In my course The Montessori Preschool Academy I provide printable versions of every material to make Montessori more affordable. Learn More Here
You don’t need everything at once—start with essentials and gradually build your collection based on your child’s interests.
5. Prepare a Montessori Environment
Your home environment plays a key role in Montessori homeschooling. A well-prepared space encourages independence, concentration, and order. To set up a Montessori-inspired learning space:
- Use low shelves with accessible materials for self-selection
- Provide child-sized furniture for comfort and autonomy
- Keep learning spaces tidy and clutter-free
- Incorporate natural materials like wood, metal, and fabric
- Create dedicated areas for reading, exploration, and practical life activities
Your homeschool area can be adapted to your needs and resources. You may have a spare room to use, an extra closet, or even just a shelf. You may be able to buy all new montessori materials or use my free printable versions. Either way it's most important to foster a peaceful and respectful atmosphere where your child feels empowered to learn at their own pace.
Starting a Montessori homeschool doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By choosing a curriculum, assessing your child’s needs, planning engaging lessons, gathering materials, and setting up a Montessori-friendly environment, you’ll create a home education experience that nurtures independence, curiosity, and a love for learning.
To get started on your Montessori preschool at home Click Here
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