The Montessori method is a system designed to encourage a child’s natural curiosity to help them develop mentally, physically, and socially. It sounds like a great system, and ideals that I’m sure every parent wants. So I was curious about how this method views baby bouncers. Does it embrace them or avoid them? Here’s what I found out.
Generally speaking, the Montessori method does not approve of baby bouncers. Parents do use baby bouncers occasionally in limited situations though, such as when taking a shower. Baby bouncers take time away from the baby which they could be using to move and explore the world around them. So what is preferred instead? Here’s what I found out.
First, I just want to make it clear that I am not a member of Montessori. I like a lot of the ideas and arguments that this method proposes, but my child is not a member of a Montessori school. All of my information comes from research and experience with implementing elements of the Montessori system.
Do Montessori schools use baby bouncers?
No. If you walk into a Montessori school or look at the website of one, they are very clear in their avoidance of baby bouncers. Baby bouncers restrict a baby’s view and movement. While inside of one they cannot learn to move, roll, or sit up. They are places where a child becomes passive and waits for entertainment to come to them.
From reading information about the Montessori method, it seems like baby bouncers and the method are diametrically opposed their view of child development. The method wants a child to always be free to move in the way the child wants, with just enough guidance from an adult to encourage valuable learning and growth. The baby bouncer on the other hand is a tool to allow the child to rest and play with their hands which being held in a safe position with minimal input from a caretaker.
I agree with Montessori that baby bouncers are not something to be heavily relied on. Though I do feel that they have their place. I fully support the Montessori method in their position, I just think they are another tool that shouldn’t be completely discarded. In the past I’ve written about some of the great benefits that baby bouncers provide{ Add Link Here}, and I strongly encourage you to take a look at that to better understand why I feel that way. I’ve also found many great accessories for baby bouncers which can make it more of a place of learning {Add Link Here}, and I encourage you to take a look at that as well. Baby bouncers can be great, but they can also be dangerous if not used correctly. If you are considering the use of a baby bouncer, please take a look at my post on the dangers of baby bouncers{ Add Link Here}.
Do parents in the Montessori program use baby bouncers?
From my research I’ve seen that many parents who use the Montessori method do agree that baby bouncers have a place. There are times when you are watching your baby on your own, and you need to leave your baby in a safe place while you handle another task. Maybe you need to shower for an event and don’t want to place your baby on a blanket on the floor of the bathroom. Maybe you need them entertained while you handle some emails or write a blog post.
With limited, and correct, use of a baby bouncer these parents are able to give their children a new experience of a baby bouncer without significantly reducing their free exploration time.
What are some good alternatives?
So if baby bouncers are not encouraged by Montessori, what do they recommend instead? Places that allow the free movement of the child while still being safe.
Playmats are generally considered the best. Soft cushions that are filled with dense foam and covered with a water resistant cover. These mats will cushion the child if they fall from a sitting position and allow a safe space for them to move and explore. Just a mat is kinda boring though. So it’s recommended to sprinkle some bolsters, boppys, and some toys around the mat. In many Montessori facilities it’s even common to see a mirror attached to the wall next to a playmat so the child can see themselves and the movement of their bodies.
Once children are able to roll and lift themselves up, then you’ll often see low bars mounted around the play area. These help encourage children to practice lifting themselves up to a standing position.
Before everything though, a good Montessori play area is safe. If the child is mobile, then you need to make sure they cannot move themselves to a position or near an item which would endanger them.