Frequently Asked Questions
When can a child use a Montessori wardrobe?
There isn’t a specific age to introduce a Montessori wardrobe, as children can benefit from one anywhere from infancy through the preschool years.
Families who start using it in infancy often appreciate the consistency as their child grows. Others may wait until their child shows signs like having opinions on what they wear, fighting getting dressed, or a willingness/ability to self-dress.
Why would a child need a wardrobe?
A Montessori wardrobe supports independence by giving children access to a small, manageable selection of clothing they can choose from on their own. Getting dressed is a big part of the day for a child!
There are so many decisions involved, and it can be exciting to make these choices. The options can be overwhelming when they have access to their entire wardrobe. With a small wardrobe like this, you can provide limited options and still allow independence.
What is the benefit of using a children's wardrobe instead of a closet or a clothing rack?
The purpose of the Alba Montessori Wardrobe is to provide a few select options of clothes that are completely accessible to the child. This can be achieved with a closet or clothing rack if the clothes are low enough for a child to reach, and if most of the clothes are packed elsewhere.
Too many options can overwhelm the child, and this kid's wardrobe serves as a display place for the day's options of clothes. It works best with a clothing rotation, similar to a toy rotation with Montessori shelves!
Should I include all of my child's clothes in the wardrobe?
The wardrobe works best with a limited selection of clothes. Children can be overwhelmed by too many options, and the purpose of the wardrobe is to help them dress themselves, starting with the choice of what to wear. It is recommended to store other clothes elsewhere, such as in the closet or dresser, and to rotate clothing options through the wardrobe, similar to a toy rotation with Montessori shelves.
What is the difference between the raw birch and finished birch wardrobes?
The designs of the raw and finished birch wardrobes are identical. The only difference is the finishing that is added to the wood. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to consider the finished birch wardrobe for the best use and longevity. Read more about the difference in materials here: https://sprout-kids.com/pages/eco-friendly-kids-furniture
Does the wardrobe need to be anchored?
Due to the size and weight of the Alba Montessori wardrobe, we recommend that it be anchored to the wall to prevent tipping. Each wardrobe comes with a free wall anchoring kit.
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