Independent Play

Two Well-Known Approaches. One Belief They Share.

You’ve seen the comparison charts, Montessori on one side and Reggio on the other, lined up like rival teams. If you’re drawn to both, they can leave you feeling you have to choose.

They differ on method but agree almost entirely about the child. The free Three Baskets guide is built on that shared belief

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Why This Happens

Strip away the vocabulary and both approaches share one belief: your toddler is more capable than the world assumes.

Both trust the child to do more and decide more. Independence is less taught than allowed — through the environment, and through our own restraint.

Try These 3 Things Today

1

Let them do the slow, wobbly version.

Things like pouring their own water, carrying their own plate. Capability grows through the doing.

2

Wait before you help.

Often a pause is enough, and the pride on their face is the point.

3

Design the space so you’re less needed.

A low hook, a reachable shelf, a step stool at the sink.

The Three Baskets free guide

Independence starts with a little room to try.

The free Three Baskets guide shows you how to create simple activity baskets from things you already have at home — giving your toddler more opportunities to choose, explore, and play independently. 16 pages, more than 40 items you already own, nothing to buy.

From a former elementary school teacher. No spam — unsubscribe anytime.

Want to Learn More?

What Montessori and Reggio Emilia Teach Us About Independence

What both understand about independence → Explore their shared approach.

Remember: Progress, Not Perfection

Welcome to the nest.