5 small changes to your home that make a big difference for your 2-year-old
When you’re 2, finding your shoes or getting a drink of water can be a lot harder than it sounds. Some simple switches to your home can help your toddler with these tasks—and make your life easier in the long run.
Research shows enabling independence now may encourage cooperation and self-reliance in the future.
How to help your child do more on their own
1. Place a box or basket near the door just for their shoes
It can be challenging for a 2-year-old to locate their shoes when they’re mixed in with a bunch of other pairs. Having a designated box helps them find their shoes when it’s time to go out—and also makes clear where shoes should be put away.
2. Provide a step-stool they can carry
Brushing teeth, washing hands, and getting a drink of water likely all require your child to use a step-stool—and they happen in different locations. Being able to move a stool from one place to the next sets them up to eventually do important self-care tasks independently.
3. Keep child-safe dishes on a low, open shelf
While it will be some time before they’re preparing their own snacks, you can plant the seed by making their dishes more accessible. This helps them get involved with setting the table for dinner or putting their own dishes away as you unload the dishwasher.
4. Provide a low laundry basket
Help your child get in the habit of not leaving their clothes on the floor by giving them an accessible place to toss their dirty socks. Reaching up and putting clothes into a high hamper isn’t as effective because they can’t see where their clothes are going.
5. Help them reach—and clean up—their toys
Low shelves and open storage bins allow your child to easily find their playthings and put them away. The Montessori Playshelf was made with this in mind 😉
Learn more about the research
Laurin, J. C., & Joussemet, M. (2017). Parental autonomy-supportive practices and toddlers’ rule internalization: A prospective observational study. Motivation and Emotion, 41, 562-575.
Montessori Placemat & Utensils
Have your child set the table on their own with Lovevery’s Montessori Placemat & Utensils. The colorful guide will help them know where everything goes. See inside the Montessori Placemat Set.
Learn moreThe Montessori Playshelf
Bring the benefits of a Montessori play experience to your home with this storage shelf. Display the optimal number of playthings at a time and keep out-of-rotation toys out of sight for a calm, clutter-free playspace.
Learn moreOrganic Nap Mat
Bring the comfort of home on the go with the 100% organic, OKEO-TEX® certified Nap Mat. The cozy set includes a padded mat, blanket, pillow, and custom buckles. Learn more about the Lovevery Nap Mat.
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