Jump to:  What Families Love the Most The Challenges of Homeschooling Homeschooling Multiple Ages Customizing School for Your Child Actionable Tips for Homeschooling Moms   The Heart of Homeschooling: What Families Love the Most From parents just starting out to those with years of experience, the same theme came up again and again: homeschooling creates space for growth, connection, and authentic learning. A glimpse into what people love:  "Freedom in my schedule and getting to actually teach the kids, not test them." “So much time with my children and so much time for them to really know themselves.” “My oldest has been able to thrive in ways he couldn’t in public school.” Here are some of the other things that families said they loved the most about homeschooling: Flexible schedules that make space for family life Sibling closeness and rich conversations One-on-one time to support unique needs instead of large group work Freedom to implement play-based or interest-led learning Children with strong attachment The Challenges of Homeschooling Homeschooling isn’t always peaceful learning, ease of scheduling, and picture-perfect learning spaces. It comes with real challenges, and you’re not alone if sometimes it is a struggle! When we asked what was hardest, here’s what our audience had to say: 55%: Balancing the responsibilities of a parent and homeschool teacher 20%: Managing multiple ages in learning 14%: Staying consistent with schooling 11%: Finding the right curriculum for your child Many shared that it’s hard to teach when your child sees you as “mom” or “dad,” and that juggling littles, homeschooling, and the needs of the home all in the same space can feel challenging to balance. Managing Multiple Ages for Homeschooling With 20% of homeschoolers in our poll saying that managing multiple ages was the hardest part of their journey, it’s easy to see why. Meeting different needs and attention spans at the same time requires patience, creativity, and flexibility. Here are strategies for navigating homeschooling multiple children: Let go of the idea that everyone has to do the same thing at the same time. Instead: Combine subjects like science, art, and history with group projects or read-alouds. Allow older kids to work independently while you focus on the little ones. Use nap time or quiet time for more focused one-on-one lessons. Try staggering lessons. You don’t have to be actively with every child all day long. Some parents schedule short blocks of focused time for each child, rotating throughout the day. Let older siblings help! They often enjoy helping out, and it also strengthens their understanding. You can let them read to younger siblings, help set up activities, or share what they’re learning in their own way. Customization for Learning Needs One of the most powerful aspects of homeschooling is the ability to completely tailor the learning environment to your child’s needs. This can be especially impactful for children who need more time, who have particular interests, and neurodivergent children. Many families in our community shared how traditional school settings weren’t meeting their children where they were. At home, they’ve been able to create calmer, more supportive environments and adjust their approach to fit how their child best learns: “I can provide a peaceful, regulated space for my autistic daughter to grow.” “Knowing my child with ADHD has the attention he needs.” “Meeting my girls where they are and not rushing through.” “Focusing on my kids’ learning needs, not a one-size-fits-all plan.” Whether it’s allowing movement during lessons, shortening work periods, using interest-led topics, or building in sensory breaks, homeschooling allows parents to support and respect each child’s rhythms. For many, this customization leads to less resistance, more confidence, and a stronger parent-child relationship. Actionable Tips from Homeschool Mamas Whether you're just beginning or in the thick of it, sometimes the most helpful advice comes from others who’ve walked the same path. We asked homeschool families what tips they have, here is some practical support: Start Simple & Find Your Rhythm “It takes a bit in the beginning to find your groove, but you will.” “Start slow and simple. You don’t need all the gadgets.” “Your stuff will slowly build. Just pick one or two things to really do well.” "Don't try to replicate school or what anyone else is doing. It doesn't have to look pretty to be good." Homeschooling doesn’t need to replicate school. In fact, many parents emphasized the importance of letting go of traditional expectations or matching what you see on social media.  Provide Gentle Structure “Have an area of the room where certain things happen, it helps to differentiate home and school if possible.” “Stay organized, but it doesn’t have to be fancy.” “You can still have structure and go with the flow.” Follow Your Child “Do your research and find the method that fits your family.” “Follow your kid. If they need to move while learning, let them.” "It doesn't need to be fancy." The beauty of homeschooling is flexibility. If something isn’t working, you can change it. If your child lights up about something, you can lean in. Find Your People “Find your support system, be that Co-op, friends, enrichment programs, etc." “It’s worth it! Find community." Being part of a community can ease the load and help you feel less alone. It also gives your kids more social connections and variety. Give Yourself Grace “Take it easy and lower the pressure.” “You can do it. It is overwhelming, but be gentle with yourself.” "Not all plans will work out, be okay with do-overs and the unexpected challenges." Give it Time "Take it one day at a time, focus on their progress. Your children are learning." "It takes a bit in the beginning to find your groove, but you will!" "The beginning is always hard. Remember you are both new to it. Try to be consistent."  Some Other Actionable Tips “You need to unschool to homeschool." "Do your research and find the method that fits your family.” “Get help with establishing a syllabus if you need it.”   Homeschooling isn’t always the easiest path, but for many families, it’s the one that offers the most customization, the deepest connection, and freedom to learn while balancing family life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. But the homeschool community is strong, resourceful, and eager to build each other up.   Have tips of your own or questions as you get started? Drop them below! Resources that can help: Chowki Tables MakerWall Art Organizer Toy Organizer Book Display Shelf Large Tables The Homeschool Collection

What is Practical Life? Looking to support your toddler’s independence?  Practical life activities in Montessori aren’t just chores, though they can look like everyday tasks. They’re meaningful, hands-on activities that help children develop independence, coordination, concentration, and a sense of responsibility. Practical life work is categorized by work that is: Care of self (e.g., washing hands, getting dressed) Care of the environment (e.g., cleaning spills, plant care) Grace and courtesy (e.g., saying “thank you,” offering help) Control of movement (carrying something carefully) Some examples of practical life activities: Pouring water into a cup Using tongs to transfer snacks Washing dishes Watering plants Setting the table Sweeping or wiping surfaces Dressing themselves (zipping, buttoning) Washing hands You can help set up a Montessori-inspired space for real, hands-on learning by having the right tools accessible for your little one. Practical Life Tools for Toddlers You don’t need a perfect setup or special materials to get started in this work. Toddlers can participate in meaningful, hands-on tasks with whatever you have at home. That said, a few well-chosen tools can make it easier for children to participate independently and joyfully. These items aren’t necessary, but they can support your child’s growing independence The environment needs to be accessible to your child for them to feel welcome in the work and make independent participation possible. You can either make items you have accessible and child-friendly, or choose some of these child-specific tools to support them: A Toddler Tower can help your child to participate in counter-height work safely.  Small pitchers and plastic trays allow them to practice pouring in a controlled environment. These can be found at donation stores or Montessori companies, such as Montessori Services.  A low table like the Weaning Set gives them freedom to move and focus on the task, whether it’s preparing food or pouring water.  A placemat will help be a guide so they can set the table without help. Download a free one here.  A small broom and mop can make the work enjoyable.  If you have the space, an accessible place to wash dishes, prepare food, or wash their hands can be helpful! (See Washing Stations)  

Being a parent can be one of the most fulfilling, yet challenging, callings in life. One moment, you may be admiring everything about your little one, but the next, you're wondering, "Am I a good mom?"  At Sprout, we are parents too. We know what it feels like to be running on empty, holding it together during a toddler meltdown, and then being completely undone by a small moment of sweetness. This past Mother’s Day, we asked our community of moms what surprised them most about becoming a mother. We wanted to hear it all and find shared experiences: the good, the hard, the funny, and the shocking. The responses poured in, and they were raw, honest, and full of heart. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or simply in need of a reminder that you're doing enough, we hope these quotes help. Jump to: The Depth and Nature of a Mother's Love How Natural or Intuitive Motherhood Can Feel How Much Motherhood Changes You The Emotional Challenges and Loneliness  The Unexpected Daily Realities   1. The Depth and Nature of Love Many mothers were surprised at how deeply and unconditionally they could love their child. They were also surprised at how much love their children were capable of giving back.  "I never knew I could love someone instantly and completely… over and over." - Sarah  "That my heart would grow 5x bigger and that something else would become my biggest priority." - Kaitlin "One thing that’s surprised me about motherhood is the unconditional love I would feel. Nobody prepared me for the ups and downs and all the emotions that come in to play while being a mother. Through it all I didn’t know it was possible to love someone as much as I love my children. Motherhood has changed the way I view the world. It’s made me more cautious to see the different changes and battles my children will have to face, appreciative that I get to experience a new way of life through my children’s eyes, and lastly it reminds me not to take time for granted. They are only little once." - Dejah "One thing that changed most in me by becoming a mother is the way I see myself. I have a new deep love and appreciation for myself and all that I am to my family." - Alana  "Motherhood has been the most magical and beautiful experience I have ever experienced. From the moment my husband and I found out I was pregnant to the birth of our little one to each of her milestones to seeing her grow up into such a sweet, kind, gentle, hilarious toddler. Every single moment has been an absolute gift full of love and joy. I can’t wait to see what next adventures she brings into our lives. The thing that has been the most surprising for me is how quickly the time goes by. It literally feels like yesterday our little one was born and in the blink of an eye she’s a full blown toddler." - Selena  "The bond you have with your child. I didn't know how much love I had inside me." - Stephanie    2. How Natural or Intuitive Motherhood Can Feel Many mothers remarked that despite experiencing common fears before becoming a mother, they were surprised at how natural becoming a mother was for them.  "I'm surprised about how natural motherhood feels to me. I expected it to feel like much more of a sacrifice, of a feeling of loosing myself, of struggling to accept the changes in my body, of feeling stuck at home. Instead, I have found it incredibly gratifying to slow down, be still, and rediscover the world through the eyes of my daughter. I'm soaking it all up and am acutely aware of how fleeting and special this time with my toddler is." - Lorraine  "I’m a little surprised but grateful that my response to “you’re a good mom” is “Thank you, I think so too”. I’m not sure I expected to feel so confident about what I’m doing but I know I’m trying my best which is all that really matters." - Mariah "I was surprised by how much I didn’t miss my old self. Everyone warned me about losing yourself in motherhood, I was ready for the changes. What I didn’t know what that these wouldn’t come in loss of self. I found a deeper truer self. I got to know myself in a new and beautiful way. It feels more like an ongoing metamorphosis. I am so proud of the woman I am becoming. I hope I keep shedding parts of me to get to the truer core of who I am. I am so proud to be a mother." - Catherine "Motherhood is easier and more intuitive than I expected! I was so nervous that I wouldn't be able to understand my little one or soothe his tears. But it's been the most magical experience - watching him grow, exploring the world, communicating, and sharing in so much laughter!" - Shoshi "How easy it would be to sacrifice my own needs to take care of my child first." - Bailey   3. How Much Motherhood Changes You Motherhood is a transformation that comes with a major shift in perspective, priorities, and even personality. Some mothers found this growth empowering, while others were caught off guard by its intensity. "I didn't exactly plan on becoming a mother, but as soon as I met my son, I knew that I was meant to be his and he was meant to be mine. Motherhood has taught me to slow down, to notice everything, to be in awe of the universe. Motherhood changed me and healed me in ways I never thought possible. As I broke generations of harmful cycles and fostered my son with love and respect, I saw him grow in self-confidence and independence. Yet, he still feels safe and at home in my embrace. Motherhood taught me that I can be enough. I am all that he needs me to be. I learned to re-parent myself and see myself through his eyes. It softened me. It showed me a love so pure and raw and boundless that it binds all wounds and covers all errors. Motherhood quite literally saved my life. My son is the reason I look forward to each new day after years of wishing not to wake up at all. It is the most challenging and most rewarding path of existence I have ever traveled, and I am endlessly grateful to be here." - Katie "Motherhood has cracked me wide open in the most unexpected ways. It’s not just about caring for my kids—it’s about facing myself. Having an autistic child has especially changed me forever, in ways I’m still learning to put into words. It’s like holding up a mirror to parts of myself I never noticed before—my sensory sensitivities, the way I process emotion, the way I was as a child. In helping my son navigate the world, I’ve realized how much I’m still learning to navigate it too. I used to think parenting was about teaching—but so much of it is about unlearning. Unlearning what I thought I knew about development, about behavior, about how kids “should” play or communicate. Watching [my children] grow—so differently, so beautifully—has made me grow, too. I’m softer now. More curious. More compassionate, especially with myself. I’m still in the thick of it, still learning every day. But motherhood, especially through the lens of neurodivergence, has changed me in the best, most permanent way." - Lucy  "Motherhood brings out your true passions. Baking with your babies on their towers, painting with them on their little table, planting seeds with them in the garden, reading stories, sharing tea on the grass. Sharing your life and exploring. Giving hope for a better tomorrow that they will sprout one day." - Cynthia  "Becoming a mother has changed me forever in the most profound and beautiful way. It has brought out what is most important to me and made me grow in ways I didn’t know possible. Becoming a mother has brought out the best most powerful, resilient side of me." - Deniz "I was surprised how much I have grown personally since becoming a mom. I knew I would change and this new season of life would propel me into becoming a different version of myself. I just did not expect it to feel the increased confidence and resilience that comes with having your first child, then the next, and the next. You really start to believe in yourself even after going through postpartum depression and the woes of being a SAHM. It's rewarding. Motherhood is hard, but gosh the growth I have achieved is indescribable." - Jalyn  4. The Emotional Challenges and Loneliness It's no surprise that motherhood brings its own set of challenges, yet the depth of these challenges took these mothers by surprise. "I wasn't worried about becoming a mother and yet somehow I still felt completely unprepared when it happened. That fact that babies/kids can be so different, what works for one doesn't work for another. Everyone gave advice about how to handle various newborn challenges, but they did not work for either of my kids. Each parent truly knows best!" - M  "All things postpartum no person/book prepared me for. Range of emotions that lead to mental breakdowns, anxiety, loneliness, balding, hunger and cravings to name a few. And the mom guilt that’s never going away. Scared by it all but still wanted another baby and pregnant with the second one now." - Sravya "I didn't realize how much self-doubt I would have! I'm a generally confident person, but in the early days I desperately sought out reassurance from others that I was doing it 'right'. It took a long time for me to feel confident trusting my intuition, but two years in I am getting there!" - Maddy  "It’s the most humbling, challenging thing I have ever been asked to do, but it’s also the most rewarding and fulfilling. I don’t think I realized how I could feel so stretched to my limits and then also so full of love for these tiny humans. Seeing their unique personalities shine through is so inspiring, but I also love seeing when parts of me or my husband show through. What a privilege to be the one to teach them and prepare them for life." - Hannah "Motherhood is so lonely and so exhausting. No one warned me about the long nights that feel eternal. Yet, the morning snuggles and smiles that make time still. It’s the hardest and most beautiful thing I’ve ever done." - Marianna  "That hard and joyful can co-exist. Also how silly I find myself acting in public and not caring because it makes my son happy." - Alyssa  "The mental load of having 3 under 3. The extreme exhaustion. The loneliness. You read about various things in books, but nothing prepares you for going through the motions. It’s HARD." - Anamaria  "The most surprising thing about becoming a mother was realizing just how deeply I can feel so many emotions all at once. I can feel overwhelming love, fierce protectiveness, exhaustion, joy, fear, and gratitude all layered on top of each other in a single moment. Like holding my child close after a long, hard day and feeling both completely drained and completely full. Motherhood cracked my heart wide open in the best way, and now it holds so much more than I ever thought possible. Second to that, I’ve learned how to have grace and compassion for myself. My babies have taught me a lot about my own tolerance and boundaries and patience. I’m grateful for their every day lessons." - Roxanne  5. The Unexpected Daily Realities Motherhood brings a lot of little daily surprises, such as:  "I’m always surprised how I can get through the day even with an infinitesimal amount of sleep!" - Lianne "I was most surprised by how much learning babies are doing every minute of every day. I knew there was learning, but I didn’t realize how immediate and constant it is, and how much of it there would be. He’s learning how his body works and interacts with the world. He’s learning his voice and we’re trying to learn what he’s trying to tell us. It’s so beautiful to witness and be a part of this important work. And it’s everything all at once - hilarious and frustrating, happy and sad, quiet and loud, slow and fast." - Luisa "I just wanted to sit and cuddle my newborn but my baby would always get super fussy. I discovered that he just wanted to be involved with what I needed to do! When I started cooking/cleaning/etc. while holding him, he LOVED it. I was totally caught by surprise with this! Ah well, I guess I’ll have to be creative to get cuddles." - Bernadette  "More okay with, even delighted to, "miss out" on things if it means hanging out with my kids." - Natalie  "What surprised me most is how much fun it was. I knew it would be hard with lots of sleepless nights and exhausted days that would all be worth it in the end. But I didn't expect the sheer delight of the little games we'd invent or how sweet the sound of his voice would be. I never thought that I would love these early days as much as I do." - Amelia  "What surprised me most about motherhood? The complete disappearance of time and privacy. I used to think bathroom breaks were a basic human right—now they’re a group activity. And showers? Let’s just say I always have a tiny, uninvited audience providing live commentary." - Alissia   What are some things in your parenting experience that have surprised you? What keeps you going on the hard days as a mom? Comment below!           

We've all been there. You spend hours cleaning your child's room or playroom, only to walk in the next day and find it even messier than it was before. You encourage your child to clean up independently, but it often ends in a power struggle and frustration.  The Montessori Method emphasizes fostering independence through a prepared environment. Can this same principle be applied to a task like cleaning their room? Absolutely! While the process will vary based on the interests and developmental stage of your child, Montessori practical life skills can be practiced within your child's bedroom or playroom if the space is prepared intentionally.   Here are seven Montessori-aligned tips to help set your child (and yourself!) up for success: Tip One: Limit what is available  If the number of items in the room feels overwhelming to you, chances are it’s overwhelming your child, too. Reducing the quantity of toys, books, and clothing can make cleanup feel more manageable and less exhausting. Set a regular rhythm (such as monthly or seasonally) to remove items that are not being used. Toys your child has lost interest in can be stored away for later rotation, while outgrown items can be donated. Depending on your child’s age, involve them in the process. Giving them a say in what stays and goes builds a sense of ownership and respect for their belongings. Tip Two: Use clear categories Organize storage by obvious, easy-to-understand categories (i.e. blocks, cars, animals, or puzzles). Avoid catch-all bins. When children know exactly where something belongs, cleanup becomes a matter of sorting, not decision-making. Tip Three: Ensure storage is easily accessible Ensure that any bins, drawers, or shelves are within reach and can be opened and closed easily by your child. An older child with more developed fine motor skills and the ability to reach higher shelves may benefit from a space that is prepared differently than a younger child. Preparing their space with configurable shelves like the Luce Shelves can be a good way to ensure that the space is able to grow as your child grows. Tip Four: Ensure every item has a home Whether it's mismatched socks or lone action figures, ensuring all items in the space have a dedicated and clear home ensures that your child can put things away where they belong. As new items enter the space, take time to assign them a spot. Likewise, remove anything that no longer fits in the current setup. This ongoing maintenance helps your child stay in the habit of putting things away independently. Tip Five: Recognize the tasks that you will need to do or help them with Some tasks may simply be beyond your child’s current developmental abilities.  It can help to ask yourself, 'What parts of this task are truly within my child’s skill set right now?' In the beginning, you might start by encouraging them to observe, then share simple, achievable tasks, like putting toys in a basket or wiping down a low shelf, while you work next to them on other parts of the cleaning. When children experience success, they’re more likely to stay motivated and enjoy helping. Over time, their independence will naturally grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are today. Tip Six: Set a simple but consistent routine Children thrive on routines because they know what they can expect. Choose a consistent time for tidying, like before dinner or after playtime, and stick with it. Giving your child a heads-up before it's time to clean can also help avoid resistance. This consistency supports healthy habit-building! Tip Seven: Make Adjustments What works today may not work in three months, and that’s okay. As your child grows and their interests change, the space should evolve too. Observe what’s working and what’s not. Maybe they need fewer options, clearer labels, or a new system for their artwork. When the environment reflects their current needs, maintaining it becomes a natural part of their rhythm.   Once the space is set up with intention, spend some time cleaning alongside your child. Demonstrate the routine, offer gentle reminders, and allow room for mistakes. It may not be perfect right away, but with consistency and small adjustments, you’ll both experience fewer struggles when it comes to keeping their room tidy.  

I recently went out for a girls' night with some mothers in my neighborhood. One of the mothers mentioned using a baby carrier at church to prevent people from asking to hold her baby, since she was concerned about the baby getting sick. Another mom, who immigrated from Zimbabwe, laughed and said in her hometown, babies were passed around freely at church. 'I’d hand off my baby and expect to get them back by the end of the service!' She then commented on the lack of community in America, and how she often felt bad for offering to hold babies or watch others' kids on the playground.  It made me realize a dilemma many American parents face: Should we protect our boundaries at the cost of community, or accept help and risk discomfort or even our child’s health? This tension is real. Do you wear your baby to avoid illness but miss out on support, or take the risk and accept help? It’s a tricky balance, but maybe there’s a way to protect both boundaries and community.   No Perfect Solution, but Human Solutions I’ve thought long and hard about this, and I haven’t found a perfect answer—because there isn’t one. There’s no perfect human, and no perfect village. Anytime we let someone into our lives, there will be a compromise, and parenting is no exception. That said, it doesn’t mean there are no answers. Through conversations with friends and our Sprout community, I’ve gathered three possible paths forward, depending on your circumstances. And it’s worth saying clearly: if you find that your boundaries or parenting style matter more to you right now than building a village, that’s okay too. Click the links below to visit the solutions that speak to you:  Find a Village of Like-Minded People  Have Hard Conversations  Let Go of What's Not Important to You Tips for Creating a Reciprocal Village   Find a Village of Like-Minded People Parenting is full of nuance, and there are countless beliefs and methods people follow. What one generation or culture considers "normal" might feel totally foreign to another, and that can cause tension or even rifts in a village. You don’t want to hand out a long rulebook just to get a babysitter for Friday night, but at the same time, key aspects of your parenting approach can easily be disrupted by someone who simply doesn’t know your goals. One solution is to surround yourself with like-minded people. For example, if you use the Montessori method in your parenting, it may be important to you that your child's work is not interrupted, even by well-meaning comments. As you are working to build their attention and focus, even a well-meaning “What are you making?” might feel like an intrusion.  It may be tough to explain to your family or friends why their well-intentioned comments are unwelcome, and they may feel discouraged and become disinterested in spending time alone with your child, for fear of doing things wrong.  By connecting with families who share your approach, you can remove the need for constant explanation. Your values are more likely to be understood and respected, offering peace of mind for both you and those caring for your child. That said, it’s unrealistic to expect everyone in your village to share your exact philosophy. Even among like-minded parents, there will be differences. And that’s okay. A similar approach is to find shared values and meet people where they’re at. For example, you might make a friend who has a very similar parenting style but has a more relaxed view on screen time for children. While you may be uncomfortable leaving your child with them for extended periods, you can still get together in a setting without screens for playdates, such as a park or museum.  Still, even this takes effort. Building a village doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time and investment to build a village.  One member of our Sprout community said, "I think that finding your village happens almost intuitively, through your interactions with people that are in similar situations. You are drawn to them, whether through your belief systems, experiences or circumstances. The main thing is, are you aware enough to recognize likeminded people or do you go and search them out. Put yourself out there in social circumstances where you have similar things going on with your families." If you want more tips on how to build a village, skip to this section.      Have Hard Conversations Due to constraints in time, effort, or location, you might feel like you can only be connected to like-minded parents online. Clare Haber-Harris said in their article, I’m Starting to Think You Guys Don’t Really Want a “Village”, "In real life, the 'village' includes your aunt who has what you think are bad politics, your mother-in-law who calls your 2-month-old son a 'ladies’ man,' your father-in-law who always has the TV on, your sister who asks too many personal questions, and … like, honestly, your 14-year-old neighbor who wants to get babysitting experience. It’s fine to decide you don’t want help from these people, but the village has traditionally meant 'the people around us,' not a bespoke neighborhood you might curate in The Sims." Sometimes your village is made up of the people already around you. They may not be perfect, but many want to help in ways they can. Keeping that support while setting parenting boundaries often means having honest conversations, without pushing them away. Here are some ways to introduce boundaries: "I really appreciated your help today. I know you were well-meaning when you told her that she couldn't have dessert until after she ate her dinner, but we don't follow that rule in our home. She can eat anything on her plate in any order she wants." "Thank you for your help today. I neglected to tell you, but in our home, we limit screentime. I would really appreciate it if you would turn off the TV or put down your phone when you're watching him."  "Thanks for agreeing to watch them today. Just so you're aware, the kids can play as much as they want, but they'll need to go down for a nap around 3."  Just like with all tough conversations, it helps to remember these tips: Express your gratitude. It can be a sacrifice to be a part of someone's village, and a little expression of appreciation can go a long way.  Frame your expectations as requests. Instead of correcting or criticizing, gently share what would be helpful. People are more likely to respond positively when they feel invited, not judged. Use "I" statements rather than "you" statements. This keeps the focus on your needs and avoids sounding accusatory. For example: “I feel more at ease when…” instead of “You always…” Boundaries are less about forcing other people's behavior and more about your reaction to their behavior. Set expectations, and let them know that if they do y, you will do x.  Avoid lecturing. You don’t have to explain all your parenting philosophies. Just share what works for your household, and offer more details only if they ask.   Here are some ways to address broken boundaries:  "Oh, you don't have to enforce her eating. I appreciate your help, but it's more important to me that she learns how to listen to her body than to clear her plate. I'd appreciate your help in this, as I believe it will help her develop a better relationship with her body and food."  "You have been such a great help. I noticed that you gave the kids iPads. As we previously discussed, we try to limit screen time. I know it may not seem like a big deal, but it will impact the rest of our day. I'd really like to work this out if we can."  "When the kids don't get their nap, they can have issues going to sleep at night from being overtired. I'd appreciate it if you could help them stick to their normal routine."   It's worth noting that not everyone will respect your wishes, even after some hard conversations. This will bring you to a fork in the road; you can choose to either uphold a boundary and limit that relationship with them, or you can find a compromise.  Here's what our community had to say:  - "Boundaries are key and it’s not black and white. My husband and I created a two page letter for family and caretakers around our son stating our parenting philosophy and perspectives to help to clear the air and have open communication without guilt or having to make things awkward in the moment. It was helpful and those who respect your wishes are worth having in your village. Those who dismiss your values aren’t worth having in your circle. Parents should feel confident having boundaries and not need to apologize for them." - "If you are struggling with boundaries in your village, you have to decide if the situation warrants risking those in your village when you share your beliefs and desires for your children with them. You are your child’s advocate. You make those hard conversations happen to advocate for the well-being of your child."      Let Go of What's Not Important to You Like all relationships, being part of a village requires compromise. Those around you may feel overwhelmed if they’re handed a multi-page list of rules or expected to follow your parenting style perfectly, especially during a short babysitting stint. And when every parent seems to have their a list of non-negotiables, it can make offering help feel more like walking on eggshells. That’s why it can be helpful to ask yourself: What matters most to me? And what can I let go of, at least when someone else is helping out? Being clear on your core priorities lets you set boundaries that are both firm and compassionate, creating space for your village to step in without fear or confusion. Here's what our community had to say:  "Honestly, I absolutely love letting family members watch my child. I value the relationship and support way more than a slightly different parenting style for a couple hours. And I tell my child “you got a special treat while you were with…” if they do something differently than I do such as watching TV. And I remind myself that this relative has raised amazing children even if we do some things differently." "For me I have the opinion that different parenting styles and rules are good for kids to experience so I don’t mind things are different with me then it is at my parents and it’s different at my parents than with my in-laws. IMO those relationships your child gets with other people are more valuable than any other little thing could be." Letting go may be difficult. You put your heart and soul into parenting, and it may seem backward to let it be reversed with your village.  Here are some tips on how to determine what you are willing to compromise on:  Does this concern my child's safety? Am I able to communicate to my child why they may be treated differently with this person than when they are with me?  Is it more important for my child to follow this boundary or to have a relationship with this person?    Me (far left) and my "village" at a Fairy Tea Party   A Reciprocal Village  Having a village means that you are a part of the village. For a village to thrive, you need to reciprocate, unless you want to burn them out. But how can you possibly reciprocate when you feel like you're drowning yourself?  In a past blog, I shared about my friend Lisa and her family; they’ve been my village as much as I’ve been theirs. After a tough week, I asked if I could spend a few hours with her baby. Not only did I get sweet baby snuggles, but I also left with a warm meal and dessert. Other times, she’s invited me on family trips, to yoga, or simply stopped by during an evening walk to check in. Building your village doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, the most restorative moments meet both their needs and yours.  Here are some examples:  "Other moms are great for this — you watch the kids Tuesday afternoon so I can run errands, I take the kids Thursday evening so you can get to that yoga class you like etc." - icantanymore22 on reddit  "I popped over [to my neighbor] and said, 'Hey, can I borrow your kid? I need to distract mine for a few hours so I can do some work' and this woman was like, 'take him' and handed me some money for snacks and away we went." - saplith on reddit  Kelsewhatelse on Instagram shared in her series "Don't Expect to a village if you're unwilling to be a villager" Part 6 how she contributed and received from her village all within the same day (I highly recommend watching that series, it's very good)  For tips on becoming a villager or building a village, you can read our blog here.  Do you have thoughts on balancing boundaries with your village? Comment below!     

A Montessori Placemat is a visual guide used when a child is learning how to set the table. Not only does this practical life activity allow a child to make a meaningful contribution to the household, but it also supports development of independence and fine motor skills.  This activity is typically taught to a child around the pre-school years but can be introduced as soon as a parent feels their child is developmentally ready! Before you introduce this activity to your child, It can be helpful to ensure that all materials that are needed are in a low cupboard that is low and accessible.    Show your child when the placemat is used and where each item should be placed. Practice setting the table with your child, guiding them as they place the items on the placemat  Encourage them to set the table independently  Incorporate table setting into your daily routine to reinforce the skill.             

Sprout worked with a licensed professional counselor to get insight into lying and children. She is currently finishing up a PHD in counseling and works with children at a nonprofit in their child development center. When asked why children lie and how caregivers should respond she shared: Understand the reason: Children may lie for various reasons, such as fear of punishment, desire for attention, or to avoid embarrassment. Understanding the underlying motivation for the lie can help parents respond effectively. Stay calm: It's important for parents to stay calm when addressing lying behavior. Reacting with anger or frustration can make the child feel defensive or ashamed, making it less likely that they will be honest in the future. Encourage honesty: Reinforce the value of honesty and integrity to your child. Let them know that while everyone makes mistakes, telling the truth is always the best course of action. Avoid punishment: While it's natural to feel disappointed or upset when a child lies, avoid responding with harsh punishment. Instead, focus on teaching the child the importance of honesty and helping them understand the consequences of their actions. Provide opportunities for honesty: Create an environment where your child feels comfortable being honest with you. Encourage open communication and let them know that you are willing to listen and support them, even when they make mistakes. Address underlying issues: Sometimes lying behavior can be a sign of deeper underlying issues, such as low self-esteem or a need for attention. If lying becomes a persistent problem, consider seeking guidance from a child psychologist or counselor who can help identify and address these underlying issues. Reinforce positive behavior: Praise your child when they demonstrate honesty, even if it's for small things. Positive reinforcement can encourage them to continue being truthful in the future. Lead by example: Children learn by observing their parent's behavior.  Helping children navigate honesty is an ongoing process that requires patience and understanding. By reinforcing truthful behavior and modeling honesty you can create an environment where children feel safe telling the truth. If lying becomes an ongoing challenge, seeking support from a child development specialist or therapist can provide additional insight. For more expert-backed parenting tips and Montessori-inspired guidance, sign up for our newsletter!    

Dr. Maria Montessori said, "Play is the work of the child." When I first heard that quote, it began a shift in my perspective of how I viewed playtime for my children. Instead of it being something to occupy their time, I started to examine how play teaches them a wide variety of foundational skills. With that in mind, I have often wondered how I can best set my children up for success in their play. The biggest takeaway for me is that play does not need to be elaborate or fancy. We chuckle over children who become more excited about the cardboard box than the present inside but for good reason! For a child, anything can be an opportunity to explore and play.  Jump to: How to Encourage Independent Play Easy Activities for Babies Easy Toddler Activities Prewriting Activities Easy Activities for Children Ages 4-5   How to Encourage Independent Play? Independent play takes practice, just like learning any other new skill. Offering children opportunities for open-ended play can help stretch their creativity and allow them to express themselves. What is open-ended play? It is any kind of play that is not locked into one specific outcome, unlike toys with a more one-and-done approach. This is one reason the cardboard box is so exciting- because it offers an infinite number of opportunities to play and imagine! You might try offering them blocks, small figurines, or other items that can fulfill a variety of activities, as opposed to something that can only be used for one purpose. Some children may struggle when you are first introducing the concept of open-ended or independent play. They may need a little direction, or invitations to play. An invitation to play could look like a shelf or table with a few items set on it to discover, or setting up a small play scene that they can then build upon. It can also be helpful to give activity ideas rather than simply saying, "Go play!" You might try, "Here are some blocks. How high can you make a tower?" or "Would you like to squish this playdough?"      Easy Activities for Babies: Skills they are developing: sitting, core support, reaching and grabbing without falling over Activity Ideas: For tiny babies, giving them freedom of movement on a blanket or the carpet is a great way to build motor skills. You can place high-contrast books or images around that they can turn their head to look at or lay them next to a mirror.  When they are learning to reach and grab, try providing them with rattles, soft books, or other objects they can grasp without risk of choking or suffocating Babies who can sit but are not yet mobile might enjoy sitting and pulling toys out of a bucket or basket, drumming on a drum, or other object. Babies are always observing and absorbing what is going on around them. With everything being new, it's easy to overstimulate them. You can start with one or two items and rotate them out when they lose interest. The Infant Shelf can be a helpful item to have as a place to display limited options for toys. Then, as babies grow older, they can learn to pull themselves up on the shelf. Want to know how to play with a newborn? Read more here.  Easy Toddler Activities: Skills they are developing: crossing the midline, depth perception, fine motor skills Activity Ideas:  Pom Pom stuffing into a jar - empty oatmeal containers are great for this! Simply cut a hole in the lid and let them practice pushing things through.   I spy jar  Chunky puzzles with handles are easy for little ones to grip and practice matching each piece.  Transferring items from one container to another. You can try ice cubes in the summer and marshmallows in the winter! Cars on painter's tape as a racetrack. Children can practice lining them up, sorting, or using them for imaginative play.    Prewriting Activities Prewriting activities include anything that strengthens the hand muscles/fine motor skills. These skills will translate later into learning to hold a pencil properly, and it can be helpful to have small children practice developing those muscles.  A few prewriting activity ideas include: Squeezing sponges - this helps to strengthen hand muscles  Using pipettes to transfer colored vinegar onto baking soda - these movements work on fine motor movements, and as a bonus, is a fun science activity!  Tracing shapes Lacing beads, noodles, or circular cereal onto string or yarn   Easy Activities for 4-5-Year-Olds:  This can be an age where you introduce simple card games such as memory or go fish.  Go fishing with a magnet glued to a string, paperclips, or other magnetic things on the ground Dot stickers and painter's tape on Kraft paper (make patterns, color, decorate, etc) Try a collaborative game like Hoot Owl, Hoot Giant I Spy Books     

Toy rotation can feel like a daunting task for many parents. Between managing a busy household, school activities, and all the day-to-day needs of your little ones, the idea of adding yet another responsibility (keeping track of which toys are out and which are put away) can seem overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be that way! With a few simple, realistic steps, you can make toy rotation a manageable part of your routine that benefits your child’s creativity and your home’s organization. Jump To: Why Toy Rotations Feel Like a Chore Toy Rotation Tips Is it Worth it? Resources That Can Help     Why Toy Rotations Feel Like a Chore- And How to Make it Better Many parents share frustrations about toy rotation. It can feel time-consuming, hard to keep track of, or simply impractical. Common struggles include: Deciding which toys to rotate in and out Finding space for toys not in use Maintaining consistency Tips for Simplifying Toy Rotation We asked parents who do toy rotations for their tips and how to make it manageable, and they had these tips for a smooth experience for the whole family.    Start Small to Build Momentum Trying to rotate every toy at once can be overwhelming. Begin with a small collection and gradually build from there. Start with 10-12 toys and observe your child’s preferences. Focus on balancing challenging toys with those your child enjoys most. Break your toys into categories. One parent shared "It’s easy to put too much out at a time, so this helps simplify." Declutter First Before diving into a rotation system, make sure you’ve pared down your collection to the essentials. This will make the process smoother and help eliminate unnecessary stress when choosing which toys to rotate. "We cleared out the clutter first, and suddenly, organizing felt way less overwhelming," shares one parent. Identify Your Child’s Favorites Make sure to keep out the toys that your child truly loves and uses regularly. Classics like building blocks or open-ended toys are great to keep accessible. Prioritize toys that get frequent use and foster independent play. "I noticed my son always goes back to his building blocks, so those stay out all the time," one parent says. "I’ve learned that classics like blocks are classics for a reason—you can do so much with a set of open-ended toys that you can’t with a lot of other toys." Avoid Rigidity and Stay Flexible Toy rotation doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s all about creating a system that works for you and your family, and adjusting as needed. If something isn’t working, it’s okay to change it. "Don’t be too rigid in how you structure rotation," one parent advises. "Try what works and adjust as needed. Also, reintroduce toys that didn’t get much interest the first time, you might be surprised by how they react after the second introduction." This flexibility allows you to tailor the rotation process to your child’s changing interests. Some toys may stay out more often, while others are rotated in and out. This approach helps keep toy rotations child-led, which is the point! Set a Simple, Manageable Schedule A regular rotation schedule can help keep things fresh, but it doesn't need to be complicated. Consider rotating toys every two weeks or every few months, depending on your family’s needs. A simple, adaptable schedule works best for most families, making it easier to stay on track and ensuring that toy rotation doesn’t become an additional stressor in your daily routine. SIMPLIFY and Embrace Imperfection As with many things, toy rotations are a journey, not a destination. Allow yourself the time to figure out what works best for your family, and embrace the imperfection that comes with it. Perfection isn't the goal, simplicity, joy, and flexibility are. "I stopped aiming for perfection, and now I actually enjoy the process," one parent shares. "It’s not about doing it perfectly; it’s about making life a little easier for everyone." Whether you follow a strict schedule, rotate a certain number of toys, or just work with what feels right at the moment, the point is to reduce stress and create a system that promotes play, creativity, and exploration. One parent shared their tip, "Follow a schedule or don’t, use a certain number of materials or don’t. The point is to help you feel organized and to promote your child’s play, creativity, and exploration!" Is it worth it? "Toy rotation has been a great experience for my family," one parent shares. "When I set out a new rotation, my son engages in more independent play and plays longer. I can tell he gets stressed when there are too many toys out at one time, so focusing on a few toys at a time has also helped with his behavior." Toy rotation is a simple and effective way to create a more organized and engaging environment for your child. By starting small, staying flexible, and focusing on what works for your family, you can make the process enjoyable rather than stressful.   The most overarching theme of all the feedback we got was "Less is more!".  Embrace imperfection, involve your child, and let the system evolve over time. With these easy steps, toy rotation will not only help keep your space tidy but also support your child’s growth and creativity.   Pieces that might help you with Toy Rotation   The Adjustable Toy Organizer The Toy Rotation Storage The Luce Shelf Cube Shelves   See also: a blog with tips from Bringing Up Babe on How to Start a Toy Rotation

Learn simple ways to play with your newborn, avoid overstimulation, and bond meaningfully. Explore tips for gentle interactions and when babies engage with toys.