Hey Amma, Papa! I love doing things by myself, and with a Montessori-inspired bathroom, I can start learning important self-care skills like washing my hands, brushing my teeth, and using the toilet. Here’s how you can set up our bathroom so I can feel confident and independent, just like you.
The Vanity
-
Sturdy Step Stool: In our Indian bathroom, we can use a two-tier step stool made of wood or plastic. This will help me reach the washbasin, turn on the tap, and even manage the lights and mirror by myself, making me feel grown-up!
-
Routine Cards: You can create simple visual cards with pictures that shows me what to do. Like, one card could show me washing hands, another for brushing teeth, and another for potty time. These can be put near the sink and the toilet as a reminder of what I need to do.
-
Handwashing Setup: Use a pump soap dispenser with easy-to-push foam soap. This will be fun and allow me to independently wash my hands. A small towel or washcloth can be placed within my reach so I can dry myself after washing.
-
Brushing Teeth and Hair: Keep my toothbrush, toothpaste, and a small child-friendly comb or hairbrush in a low drawer or holder. You can even give me two types of toothpaste flavors—like mint and strawberry—to make brushing fun. Having my hairbrush in an easy-to-reach spot helps me practice brushing my hair too.
-
Timer: Use a timer to tell me how long I can stay in the bath. You can set it for 5 minutes to help me know when it’s time to finish and get out.
-
Storage Solutions: Keep towels and washcloths in a low basket or drawer that I can easily access. I will love pulling them out after bath time. You can also teach me to help with laundry, making me feel proud of taking care of my things.
Toileting
-
Potty Accessibility: A small potty seat that fits on the regular toilet will help me feel more independent. If we have a potty chair, you can keep it nearby, so I know where it is when I need it. Don’t forget to show me how to use toilet paper properly and let me try on my own.
-
Supplies Basket: Keep a small basket in the bathroom with extra wipes, books, and even a spare change of underwear or clothes for me. This helps me feel ready for anything!
-
Child-Safe Mirror: Let me check my clothes and my face with a child-safe mirror installed at my height. I will learn to be more aware of my body and take pride in getting dressed.
The Bath
-
Manageable Toiletries: Use small bottles of shampoo and body wash that fit my hands. You can also use a simple soap bar, which is often easier for me to manage on my own.
-
Bath Toys: Limit the number of toys in the bath to a few that I can play with, like little cups or spoons to pour water. We can rotate these toys to keep things exciting. Toys like a small jug for pouring water will help me practice pouring.
-
Towel Hook: Place a hook or small rail at my height where I can hang my towel after my bath. This teaches me responsibility and helps create a routine.