The holiday season can be full of beauty and togetherness, but it can also feel busy, loud, and overwhelming. This can be especially true when you have young children at home. It is so easy to put the pressure on yourself as the parent to pull out all the stops and do what you see everyone else doing, but traditions don’t need to be elaborate or perfectly executed to be meaningful. The moments children carry with them aren’t the ones that looked the best, they’re the ones that felt safe, connected, and joyful. This season, the goal isn’t to do more. It’s to be more intentional with what you already have. Jump to:  Traditions that begin with mindset Classic holiday traditions  New family traditions  Montessori-inspired ways to celebrate Simplifying family traditions    Traditions that begin with mindset Some of the most meaningful holiday traditions begin with how we approach the season.  Age-appropriate giving can look simple and tangible for young children: Making drawings or cards for family members, neighbors, or caregivers Choosing a toy to pass along together when it’s time to donate Talking about giving in concrete, everyday language Practicing gratitude and connection doesn’t have to be formal: Naming one thing you’re thankful for at dinner or bedtime Sharing a favorite part of the day or week Creating small pauses to be together, without distractions Talking about something someone did for you that made you happy Brainstorm ways as a family to potentially spread holiday joy These traditions build slowly, over time, and can lean into the pure heart that children have.    Classic holiday traditions You don’t need to reinvent the season to make it special. Familiar traditions, adapted to the pace of young children, can feel comforting to parents and children. Reading holiday books together Baking or cooking holiday classics Decorating the tree together Looking at Christmas lights together A yearly keepsake made with your child Themed advents Holiday movie nights Making a paper chain countdown to Christmas  Sipping hot cocoa together  Lighting a Christmas-scented candle  Playing outside, in snow or other weather  Wearing matching PJs on Christmas Eve  An exclusive Christmas meal or treat  Singing Christmas carols together  Making gingerbread houses  Writing letters to Santa  Making ornaments together Secret Santa gift exchange     Looking for new traditions? If your family is ready for something new (but simple), here are some alternative family holiday tradition ideas: Read books, listen to music, or share simple stories about different celebrations such as Christmas, Hanukkah, or St. Nikolaus Day. This can be as easy as lighting candles, noticing symbols, or talking about how families around the world celebrate. Making snowflakes to bring a white Christmas indoors Each person adds something to the 'family stocking' A wrapping party Light a candle at dinner all December, taking turns who gets to light it (or with young children, who gets to blow it out) An act of kindness advent Family gratitude list No-electronics night, where the family can unplug and connect with puzzles or games Family sleepover  Midnight dessert feast - have treats in bed Christmas Eve  Quiet night of reading together    Montessori-inspired ways to celebrate Sensory experiences might include: Exploring natural textures like pinecones, fabric, or wooden ornaments Noticing seasonal scents, sounds, and light A holiday-themed sensory activity Practical life moments can naturally become part of the celebration: Wrapping gifts together Setting the table or helping prepare food Carrying decorations, wiping surfaces, anything that keeps them contributing in real ways     For years you need to simplify holiday traditions Some years might ask us to slow down. Holiday traditions can be simplified to meet your needs depending on the season of life you are in, while still committed to doing it every year. Simplifying traditions doesn’t mean you’re letting them go, it means you’re meeting your family where they are. Baking together might mean using store-bought dough Decorating a small tabletop tree instead of a large one  Watching videos of Christmas lights while listening to holiday music Coloring Christmas pages instead of a Christmas craft  Having a movie on in the background while you wrap presents  Children don’t need everything to stay the same. They need to feel calm, included, and connected.   When there are young children at home, it’s okay to choose less. The holidays don’t need to be full to be meaningful. In fact, simple, familiar routines can be especially comforting during busy seasons. Choose traditions that feel manageable, and let go of the idea that you need to do it all. However this season looks for your family, we hope it’s filled with moments of connection, calm, and togetherness. We’d love to hear which traditions your family returns to year after year.  

Floor beds have been gaining popularity, with some parents choosing them from birth or as soon as their child outgrows a bassinet. It is natural to have questions about trying something that feels non-traditional, including:  What if the child rolls out? What if they never want to go to bed and stay up to play all night instead? What if the room isn’t fully baby-proofed? Some parents might look for a middle ground: a floor bed with rails. This type of bed looks more like a traditional crib but sits low to the ground. But do they still provide the benefits of a true floor bed? And are there hidden risks? Here are our thoughts. The Philosophy Behind the Floor Bed Safety and Rails  Alternatives to Rails  Safety and the Floor Bed   The Philosophy Behind the Floor Bed The floor bed philosophy originates from Maria Montessori’s belief that children thrive when they are given independence and accessibility within their environment, both at home and at school. She extended this idea to sleep, suggesting that allowing a child to get in and out of bed freely supports both development and a healthy sleep rhythm. As she explained: “The child... must be free not only during the day but also at night… If we want to get out of bed during the night, we can. Imagine what it would be like to be put to sleep in a high cage that you could not get out of when you woke in the morning. I should not sleep well under those conditions. Suppose a giant always put me to bed, and I couldn't get out unless this giant were to come to me very sleepily and help me out."— Maria Montessori, The 1946 London Lectures, pp. 133–135 Montessori herself never designed a specific bed. In fact, she often recommended simply placing a mattress directly on the floor. This is still a perfectly valid option today, but it’s important to consider airflow to avoid moisture buildup and mold.    Sosta Bed, Full platform In addition, this might not always match the desired aesthetic of the parent. You can choose a mattress on the ground and can air it out regularly, or place it on a low bed to allow ventilation while keeping it accessible to the child. The heart of the method lies in freedom of movement. If tall rails or barriers prevent a child from getting in and out independently, the purpose is lost. Still have questions? See our blog explaining them in detail!    Safety and Rails Sometimes when people think of Montessori furniture, they think of "sad beige" aesthetics. However, the only component a bed needs to be truly Montessori is the accessibility to the child. The aesthetics of the bed are simply a choice for a parent and child to make to best suit their needs and style.  So, can a toddler bed with rails be considered Montessori?  Yes - as long as there is a way for the child to independently get in and out of the bed. Some floor beds with rails have an opening for the child or a gate that they can learn to open. This can allow children the freedom and mobility a floor bed offers, while preventing them from rolling off.    View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montessori Children’s Furniture (@sprout_kids)     However, it is worth noting that children who like to climb might need some observation as you introduce rails, which may distract from sleep.  One solution is removable or adjustable rails. You can use a rail until the child no longer needs it, and then it can be removed to provide better access to the bed when they are ready. This flexibility was something that we looked for when we designed the Sosta Bed. All rails are removable, to best adapt to your child’s needs as they grow.  Sosta Bed, Twin with headboard + footboard   Alternatives to Rails There are some alternatives to rails if you want your child to have a little extra support staying in bed during the night.  Some parents may place pool noodles or foam bumpers underneath their children’s bedsheets to create a barrier that prevents the child from accidentally rolling out. You may want to ask your health care provider if you consider this approach to determine if this is a safe option for your specific child.  Another option is to place a cushioned play mat or carpet by the bed, so if the child does roll off in the night, they have a soft landing. Birch Montessori Floor Bed   Safety and the Floor Bed There are several things to consider and prepare for introducing a floor bed to a child, depending on their age. You can explore our other blog articles on these topics:  Checklist of Everything to Baby/Childproof Before Using a Floor Bed How to Transition Your Child to a Floor Bed  Mattress Guide for Sprout Beds   Have questions? Drop them below or email us at support @sprout-kids.com

The Benefits of Risky Play Risky play supports a child’s sensory processing, movement skills, and confidence. The exact benefits will vary depending on each child’s unique sensory needs, but it can provide: Just-right challenges that match the child’s abilities. Opportunities to develop key sensory skills: Proprioception - your body’s sense of where it is in space and how it’s moving. Vestibular awareness - the body’s sense of balance, movement, and spatial orientation. Interoception - your body’s ability to sense and understand internal signals, like hunger, fatigue, or heart rate changes. Movement calibration and physical strength, including ankle stability, coordination, and overall body control. Problem-solving and meaningful exploration, as children figure out what they are capable of. Encouraging risky or challenging play helps children push their abilities in ways that promote growth without causing frustration or disengagement. Allowing children to struggle within safe limits fosters cognitive development and executive functioning skills. It gives them space to see problems from different angles, practice multi-causal thinking, and develop basic problem-solving abilities while learning to adapt. When children accomplish something on their own (at a level appropriate for their age and development), the pride and joy they experience increases the likelihood they will continue to challenge themselves in the future. Risky play isn’t just fun; it’s an invaluable experience that supports growth in countless ways. (This insight comes from an Occupational Therapist specializing in Sensory Integration and Processing.) Balancing Safety & Challenge The goal is to allow children to explore and take risks safely, rather than trying to remove every hazard. Here’s how you can do it: Assess the environment - Remove hazards that could cause serious injury (sharp items, traffic, deep water, extreme heights), but leave challenges that encourage movement, problem-solving, and risk-taking. Also consider which additions are necessary (think: a helmet). The removals should all be age-appropriate. Some examples: rollerblading down a slight hill, but ensure you are in a low traffic area, and they are wearing a helmet. Or jumping from one item to another. Ensure the landing is stable and away from sharp corners, but let them jump even though they might fall. Provide just-right challenges - Match an activity to a child’s abilities, allowing them to stretch themselves without overwhelming them. Supervise without taking over - Be present to step in if something becomes unsafe, but let the child try first. You can ask, "What's your plan?" or acknowledge, "You are up high!"  Teach risk-awareness - Talk through safe ways to navigate challenges, so they have some information to think back on to encourage safe decisions. Gradually increase difficulty - As children gain confidence and skill, increase the challenge level! It’s natural to want to protect children from bumps and bruises, but removing all risks can also take away crucial learning opportunities. Appropriate risky play is not the same as dangerous play. By allowing safe challenges, children can experience important emotions, including: Hesitation Excitement Fear Joy Mastery It helps them learn about their bodies, their limits, and their comfort zones, supporting both physical and emotional development. Safe risky play is about controlled, meaningful challenges. Children learn resilience, confidence, and self-awareness when they are allowed to test their limits in a secure environment.

"In Japan, there is often an emphasis on 'not making mistakes', 'aiming for a perfect score', and 'following directions'. I began to question whether this approach truly nurtures creativity. I wanted to create a place where children could express their ideas freely; a place where they wouldn’t be compared, corrected, or evaluated, but instead valued for their own process and imagination.That’s when I discovered the concept of Process Art, which deeply inspired me. I was drawn to the idea of valuing the experience of exploration and decision-making more than the perfection of the final artwork. I wanted children to feel the joy of creating freely and the pride that comes from completing something on their own.When designing my studio, I focused on creating a space that instantly sparks imagination the moment you walk in, feels open and full of creative energy yet remains organized and calm, and has the flexibility to transform to fit a wide range of activities and ages.The MakerWall has truly become the face of our studio. When children and parents walk in and see it, their eyes light up — I love hearing their joyful “Wow!” every time. What I appreciate most is how it beautifully displays our materials while keeping the space calm and organized. It allows children to see, touch, and choose what they want to use by themselves.One of my biggest challenges in designing the studio was flexibility. Our studio isn’t large — when five children and their parents are inside, it’s already full! So I wanted to avoid creating areas that could only serve a single purpose.That’s why I especially love the Folding Desk from MakerWall. Sometimes we use them as tables, sometimes as display shelves for 3D artworks, and other times we fold them flat to hang paintings. Even when folded, there’s still enough space inside to store paint bottles, which makes tidying up quick and effortless. During classes, when I suddenly need extra space, they save me every time.I also love the Jar Rack, where brushes, pens, and scissors are always within children’s reach. But during baby classes, I can easily move the jars to keep the environment safe. And the Drying Rack has been another favorite. It fits large B3-size paper perfectly, so we use it both as a drying area and a paper storage shelf.All the accessories can be rearranged freely, so I can easily adjust the layout depending on the activity or age group. Thanks to that flexibility, our daily setup and cleanup have become so much smoother and the space always feels fresh and inspiring."

Children's birthdays can come with a lot of pressure! You're wondering: How to make birthday celebrations special How to make the day smooth How to make their birthday memorable How to avoid overwhelm Birthdays don’t need to be over-the-top to be magical ✨Social media often shows the picture-perfect version, but here is the truth: the most meaningful celebrations are simple, present, and personal. Jump To: Navigating your Feelings & Expectations Navigating Sibling Feelings Traditions & Meaningful Gifts First Birthday Tips Parents told us the hardest parts of birthdays, and it might not be what you think! Here are their tips for each category they struggled with: Managing Feelings Throughout the Day Emotions run high on special days, for kids and grown-ups alike. These ideas help keep things calm and connected: Quietly remind yourself, “It’s not my day,” to release expectations Build in downtime, free play, and outdoor time (overscheduling = overwhelm) Avoid surprises Reflect afterward: What mattered most this year? Don’t compare your celebration to someone else’s highlight reel Let your child set the pace The 4 Cube Shelf, seen above. Sibling Jealousy Birthdays can be tricky for siblings, too. Try helping them name and navigate their feelings: “Today we’re celebrating your sibling.” “It can be hard to wait for your own special day.” “I look forward to your special day, but today I want to celebrate ____. Want to try that with me?” Other ideas are to give them a special role like “birthday helper” or “party assistant.”You can also let them help choose a gift for the birthday child to encourage empathy and participation. It gives them a proud moment to share later: “I picked that for you!” See our blog on meaningful gifts for children. Some ideas are a book display full of books to encourage quality time, subscriptions/memberships, or 1-1 dates doing their favorite activities!.  The Weaning Chair, seen above.  Traditions & Meaningful Gifts Simple traditions can make birthdays feel special year after year. Parents shared some of their favorites: Celebration ring or birthday crown Handmade or heartfelt gifts Half-birthday celebrations for December babies Streamers on the bedroom door to wake up to joy Take notes throughout the year of things that you see them drawn towards to surprise them with later A Polaroid or photo from every birthday as a keepsake Monthly subscriptions like photo books or activity kits Functional gifts that grow with them, like travel bags, play kitchens, art supplies, etc A short video of special moments from the year to reflect on together Print photos of their face wearing party hats. This is a fun way to reflect back, and can be cute and funny, too! The Petra Table, seen above.  Tips for first birthday parties Hang decorations low and high so your baby can explore too. Choose simple, interactive activities instead of ones that come with tension or big expectations. Sensory overwhelm can easily happen for your little one on days like this. Offer their favorite foods (and a few for the grown-ups). Don’t stress about the smash cake-many little ones skip it! At the end of the day, what matters most is connection. When you let go of perfection and lean into presence, your child will remember the love and feeling of being celebrated.

Switching to a floor bed is more than just a new piece of furniture, it’s a quiet shift in how you and your child trust one another.  With a floor bed, your child can get in and out of bed on their own, follow their natural sleep cues, and practice self-regulation. But with this freedom comes a responsibility for you as their parent: their entire room now becomes a space they will need to be able to explore freely, safely, and confidently.  For many parents, this can bring up mixed feelings, including worry about what could go wrong. Preparing their room thoughtfully helps you feel calm, knowing they have freedom within safe limits. To help you get ready, we’ve put together some considerations. Use this checklist to make sure your child can enjoy their new independence without unnecessary risks: Cover electrical outlets & manage cords. You have a few options: Outlet covers for unused sockets. Cord management: block cords behind furniture, use cord covers or sleeves, or tuck them into cable management boxes. Blind cords: wrap them with cord cleats, or install breakaway tassels, tensioners, or inner cord stops. Remove choking hazards. Small objects can be surprisingly dangerous. Check for: Coins, buttons, or beads Small removable pieces that may be present on larger toys, such as beaded or button eyes, button batteries, etc.  Minimize suffocation risks in the bed Keep bedding tight and minimal. The CPSC advises keeping cribs free of pillows, stuffed animals, and loose blankets for infants. For toddlers, introduce age-appropriate pillows, lightweight blankets, and safe stuffed animals. Use a mattress that’s appropriate for your child’s age. Remove or secure low-hanging items Take down drapes or curtains that could be pulled down. Ensure trash bags are tightly secured in the trash can. Limit pets’ access to the room. Anchor heavy furniture. Any item that could tip over needs to be secured. Things to consider: Large pieces like bookshelves or dressers should be anchored to wall studs. Large Sprout furniture comes with anchoring kits, contact our support team if you need extras. Always check smaller pieces too, they can still tip over! Look from your child’s perspective Get down on your hands and knees to look around the room from your child’s height! This often reveals hazards you might miss while standing. Another important consideration Another important thing to consider is your own feelings as their caregiver. For some parents, the best way for them to prepare the space and feel at peace not being in there is to have the floor bed in an empty room.  Here are a few other ways parents find peace of mind as they make the transition: Mostly minimalist approach: Keep the room nearly empty at first with just the bed, a rug, and a low shelf with a few toys. Gradual independence: Start by using a baby gate or floor bed inside a larger crib-sized area, and expand the space over time. Monitor setup: Use a video monitor if it helps you relax while they explore independently. Nighttime connection: Keep a floor bed in your room for the first few weeks as they adjust. Shared rhythm: Build routines that help them know what comes next, like a consistent bedtime, dim lighting, or soft cues. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montessori Children’s Furniture (@sprout_kids)   Every family’s setup looks a little different! Some are simple, some cozy, some full of books and baskets. What helped you feel ready for the transition? Share your setup or tips in the comments below.

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, customized learning experience Freedom to implement play-based or interest-led learning Children with strong attachment Customized learning pace 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.