As my infants grew a month older (who are 5 & 7 now), I closely observed the babies’ behavior and made slight changes in their activities. Hence, I created a safe and stirring environment around them which is important for Montessori activities for 5-month-olds.
Moreover, I found that Montessori is a fantastic method that allowed my children to learn a lot through experiences and their natural inquisitiveness.
My Favorite Montessori Activities For My 5 Months Old Infants:
There are hundreds of Montessori activities for toddlers. I researched a lot and picked the most suitable Montessori activities for my 5-month-old infants. They are as follows:
Montessori Games For 5 Months Old:
The focus of Montessori-inspired activities is mainly sensory exploration and the development of motor skills.
Thus, games, especially Montessori-inspired games, play a vital role in properly shaping the aforementioned skills. There have been several Montessori games for 5 months and among them I chose the following and you also can do the same:
- Grasping Toys: To develop hand-eye coordination and good motor skills I gave my toddlers wooden and fabric grasping toys that are easy for them to hold.
- Mirror Play: As babies love to see their reflections in mirrors, I decided to place a safe and unbreakable mirror in a safe place so that they could find themselves and their motions.
Now, for the first time, when my firstborn came in front of the mirror and saw his reflection, he started to smile and mumble.
I was speechless and could not describe in words how I felt then as a father. It was such a beauty that could only be felt. Above all, the pleasure was immense.
- Sensory Baskets: Next, I provided my infant baskets which were durable and free from any toxic paint or substance. Then I filled it with soft fabric pieces, wooden blocks, and crinkly papers. Of course, I did it under my supervision.
I put the babies in the basket and let them explore their texture. This is one of the best practices that allows a child to develop his/her sensory skills.
- Music and Movements: Babies love hearing soft sounds. Therefore, I used to play soft music and very gently stir their arms and legs to the rhythm to develop a sense of coordination.
Moreover, I always kept in mind that my infants were only five months old.
I am sure these are nice and safe Montessori games for 5 months old. Only you must keep an eye on them while being in those games as I did.
5 Months Montessori Activities:
Apart from games, there are various Montessori activities for a 5-month-old. In my case, I put the following Montessori activities into practice:
- Observing sensory bottles, filled with colorful beads, buttons, glitters, and even colorful water. I only ensured that bottles were made of transparent and toxic-free plastic.
- Providing enough tummy time for strengthening my babies’ muscles and motor skills. To fulfill it, I had placed colorful toys beyond their reach on the floor or bed and they tried to reach them.
- Going outdoors with my infants for their experience with natural sounds, smells, and scenes. This process helped them a lot to familiarize themselves with flowers, leaves, birds, and natural objects.
- Showing my babies’ board books with contrasting colorful large images that they used to explore.
These are some Montessori activities for a 5-month-old baby which I implemented. Besides, there are several other activities that you can try for your 5-month-old baby.
DIY Montessori Activities For 5 Months Old:
It is not always possible to buy expensive toys or teaching-learning materials but still, a 5-month-old baby can be provided with high-quality DIY learning materials. “DIY” stands for do it yourself.
First of all, I chose tummy time which enabled my babies to do their best to reach or feel safe objects themselves.
Next, I let them play with lightweight rattles or shakers.
At this point, you may choose socks with rattles, silver-plated rattles, and even wooden rattles.
In addition to this, a gentle massage or touch can be another DIY Montessori activity for their development.
Outdoor Activities For 5 Months Old:
To make sensory stimulation and easy movement in the outside for my 5 months, I did the following:
- Tummy time outside:
For this, I used to lay out a soft cloth or blanket in a shaded area and let my infants use their tummy time to explore many things obviously under my strict supervision.
- Stroller Walks:
To stimulate my babies’ various senses, I took them in for a stroll in and around my neighborhood.
- Swinging:
I also set up a suitable baby swing in a natural atmosphere for my babies. It was really enjoyable and stimulating for them.
- Play In Water:
As a part of outdoor activities for a 5-month-old, I considered water play in a protective way. Only after having clean safe water and the weather being warm, I took my babies for some water play. Because of this, their sense of liquid grew.
There is a strong caution that you must have a close watch during the water play. Montessori activities for 5-month-old olds are not as easy as ABC, rather continuously attention demanding. So, your sustained supervision is a must.
FAQ:
What Is Tummy Time?
Laying babies on their stomachs for a brief period while they are awake or playing on a suitable surface is called tummy time.
What Is A Sensory Basket?
A sensory basket is a basket that is filled with safe wooden blocks, crinkly toys, soft toys, etc.
How To Entertain A 5-Month-Old At Home?
To entertain a 5-month-old baby at home several measures can be taken. They are observing sensory bottles, providing enough tummy time, and many more.
What Do I Do With My 5-Month-Old All Day?
Throughout the day you can engage your child in various Montessori activities like observing sensory bottles, tummy time outside, stroller walks, playing in water, and many more.
Sumanta De is an educator. He has been teaching students for more than 16 years following the principles of Dr.Maria Montessori. He has a 7-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter.
He is nurturing his children abiding by the principles of Dr.Maria Montessori. His passion for Montessori methods goes beyond the classroom.
Hence, he shares his experiences and insights through a dedicated Montessori blog and a YouTube channel under the name “NewChild Montessori”. He aims to offer valuable guidance to both parents and educators.
Education: M.A. English, Masters in Child Psychology & Bachelor’s Degree in Montessori Teachers Training