exploringmontessori

One thing I’m learning (and re-learning) on this Montessori journey is that it doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve questioned whether something in our home is “Montessori enough.” Whether I’m doing things right. Whether I should be offering a different toy, a different presentation, or avoiding things that aren’t fully aligned.

Honestly, I still catch myself in those thoughts more often than I’d like to admit.

But I’m working on it. Because the truth is — it’s okay if it’s not 100% Montessori all the time. It really is.

Montessori, for me, has always felt like more than a method — it’s a mindset. A way of seeing and respecting my child. And when I remind myself of that, it helps quiet that inner voice that wants to do everything just-so.

Sometimes we use things that aren’t exactly “on method.” A toy that’s more open-ended. A shelf that’s not quite minimalist. But if it still supports my son’s independence, lets him explore at his own pace, and invites him to engage with the world meaningfully — that feels aligned with what Montessori means to me.

I think as parents, especially those of us trying to be intentional, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to do it all perfectly. But Montessori isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about trusting our children. It’s about creating an environment that’s thoughtful — not flawless.

So this post is as much for me as it is for anyone reading:

It’s okay to adapt. To do what works. To blend. To keep learning.

You don’t have to have all the right materials. You don’t have to follow every suggestion exactly. You don’t have to look like anyone else’s version of Montessori.

At the end of the day, I want my son to feel seen, respected, and free to explore — not just surrounded by beautiful wooden toys. And I want to feel confident in trusting my instincts, even when something isn’t from a Montessori shelf or approved list.

So if you’ve felt this pressure too — I see you. I’m right there with you.

We’re all learning, adjusting, and doing our best. And that’s more than enough.