There are many ways to approach parenting and education. In this post, we chat with demi—a Certified Montessori Teacher, Childcare Worker, and mother of two—to explore simple ways to organize your home so your child can gain independence and proudly say, "I did it myself!"
Meet demi
- Role: Certified Montessori Teacher / Childcare Worker / Home Organization Educator
- Background: Founder of Osaka Montessori Classroom (for ages 1–6). Shares practical "At-Home Montessori" parenting tips on Instagram and blog. Mother of two boys (born in 2017 & 2022).
- Credentials: Certified Montessori Teacher (Diploma from North American Montessori Center, 3–6 years), Licensed Childcare & Japanese Language Teacher.
Q: Montessori education can sound a bit intimidating...
demi: I get that a lot!
But "At-Home Montessori" isn't complicated. By making small adjustments—like organized toy storage, a child-friendly environment, or changing how you speak to your child—you can start right away without spending a fortune. It makes daily parenting much smoother and less stressful!
Q: What is key to creating a Montessori-inspired home?
demi: Right-sized furniture for your child's body is crucial.
For instance, many homes use step stools in the bathroom. Step stools give children access to higher places, enabling them to do things independently. Every small attempt leads to a success story!
Q: We love that you use yamatoya's "Norsta" Desk & Chair set!
demi: I love yamatoya products! They are warm, simple, easy to assemble, and safe. I use them both at home and in my Montessori classroom.
The Norsta series is sleek, lightweight enough for kids to handle, and height-adjustable—which is extremely important. Many kids' chairs require a replacement around age 3 as the child grows, which can feel wasteful.
While the Norsta chair is listed for ages 1.5 and up, I find it perfect from around age 3, with a lowest height setting (18.5 cm) that lets even 1 to 2-year-olds plant their feet flat on the floor. Being able to adjust both the desk and chair height is a lifesaver!
Q: Any message for parents wanting to start At-Home Montessori?
demi: Young children absorb everything around them naturally. Don't worry if things don't go perfectly today! Trust that their progress will show in time, and stay patient.
Parenting is a 24/7 job—it's tough! Focus on building small habits whenever you can, so your child can confidently say, "I did it myself!" Even Dr. Montessori started with trial and error. Take it one step at a time, and let's keep going together!
Key Takeaway
Montessori recommends introducing a personal desk and chair set around 1.5 years old (when walking and sitting independently become stable).
A desk and chair properly adjusted to your child's height—allowing their feet to touch the floor—helps build focus and encourages a natural habit of sitting down to engage in activities independently!
*The product shown in the top image, which demi's son is using, is a previous model of Norsta.
