In my last post, I mentioned that we like to rotate Jamila’s books every week or so to keep things interesting for her, and the same goes for toys too. By rotating her toys and books, we ensure that she has a good mix of materials which support the area that she is currently working on mastering .
Toy rotation is not only great for the child but for us parents too, as it keeps clutter to a minimum. You’re also much less likely to step on a Lego piece as you’re making your way to your third cup of coffee for the day.
Research has proven that when toddlers are given fewer choices of toys, their interactions with them are more meaningful and engaging. Montessori encourages a minimalist approach when it comes to toys, with a maximum of 6-8 being placed on display at any given time. This does not mean that you should deprive your child of toys, obviously. Just put the ones currently not in use into storage and bring them out again in the next toy rotation.
The first step of toy rotation is observing your child. What are they currently mastering, and how? If for example, your child is enjoying putting things into baskets and taking them out again, you may want to offer them a shape sorter. If they’re enjoying stacking things or making piles, give them some building bricks or stacking rings to support this. If they’re shaking their toys or banging them on the floor, on you, and on everything they can possibly hit them on, give them a bell or a rattle.
I like to mix things up on Jamila’s shelf, so I’ll give her a few toys for the current area that she is mastering, as well as a few others which she is enjoying just to keep things interesting. When she looses interest or hasn’t reached for a toy in a few days, I swap it out with something new. This way, her shelf stays fresh and interesting for her, and it also gives me the opportunity to donate any toys which she has outgrown.
The same goes for books. If I’m reading her a particular book and notice her squirming and trying to escape every time, I know that it needs swapping with something more interesting or relevant to her.
Toy and book rotation is a simple concept really, and I’ve found that it really helps Jamila to focus and concentrate. By observing your child and giving them what they need rather than giving them absolutely everything all at once, you allow them to really engage and master one thing at a time, and ultimately in this environment they thrive.
Montessori Muslim 