The Montessori method, famous for its child-centred approach, is easily integrated into our daily lives. However, what about travel? How to apply its principles to ensure a peaceful and enriching journey with your children? Transforming each trip into an educational adventure is possible thanks to a few simple adjustments. Learn how to prepare, involve and promote the autonomy of your children while travelling, while respecting the Montessori spirit.
Apply the Montessori method to travel preparation
The preparation of the trip is the perfect opportunity to integrate the Montessori method. By involving children from the outset, you not only cultivate their autonomy, but also help them feel committed and responsible.
Involve children in planning
A key aspect to apply Montessori during travel is to involve the child in planning from the beginning. Show them photos of potential destinations, discuss possible activities, and encourage them to express their preferences. Thus, not only do they feel valued, but they begin to appropriate the journey.
- Create a dedicated travel area with maps and images.
- Talk regularly about the stages of the trip.
- Encourage open questions and discussions on the route and destination.
Montessori Planning Table:
| Activity | Benefit Montessori | Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Choice of clothing | Autonomy and organization | List illustrated |
| Follow-up of the itinerary | Spatial orientation | Map at view height |
| Pack preparation | Personal responsibility | Personal bag |
Maintain a Montessori routine during the trip
Travelling can be disturbing for children, especially when they're out of their familiar surroundings. Maintaining certain routines can help create a sense of security and continuity.
Adapt your daily routines
The familiar routines bring comfort and structure. Your children's daily rituals – such as waking up, eating or sleeping – can remain stable even on trips. For example, take with you the ritual of your child's favorite bedtime. This may include a typical story read every night.
Table of adapted routines during the trip:
| Time of day | Travel adaptation |
|---|---|
| Alarm clock | Music or its familiar soothing |
| Meals | Using a portable table set |
| Sleep | Reading the favorite story |
Integrate fun exploration into every trip
Travel is an opportunity to explore new environments and cultures. The Montessori method values learning through exploration and observation, transforming each destination into a source of discovery.
Sensory activities and cultural discoveries
Encourage your children to observe their surroundings and interact with their surroundings. This can be done through sensory activities that are easy to set up, such as touching different textures or identifying different sounds.
- Collect local natural objects: stones, leaves, bark.
- Use a sketch book to draw what they see.
- Take pictures of interesting items.
Table of activities to be explored:
| Activity | Educational objective |
|---|---|
| Hunting textures | Sensory development |
| Observation and drawing | Creativity and fine motor skills |
| Photography | Environmental awareness |
Manage unforeseen events with serenity
Unexpected events are inevitable during a trip, but by approaching them with calm and method, they become learning opportunities.
Positive communication and autonomous choices
Focus on open communication. Proposing simple choices to the child can help manage stress and feel in control.
- Prepare a calm return kit with games, books and soothing objects.
- Encourage children to choose their preferred quiet activity during waiting times.
- Initiate a discussion on their preferences to adapt the program.
Emergency Kit Montessori to be provided:
| Item | Utility |
|---|---|
| Full change | Prevents accidents |
| Healthy snacks | Comforting food |
| Comforting object | Brings emotional comfort |
Optimize each mode of transport for the Montessori trip
Travelling with children can be a challenge depending on the mode of transport chosen. However, each environment offers opportunities to apply Montessori pedagogy.
Adaptation by mode of transport
Car, train or plane: Each way you travel requires special preparation to ensure that the child remains engaged and relaxed.
By car, consider providing storage pouches and an activity tray for long journeys. By train, enjoy the freedom of movement to explore the different sounds and movements. For air travel, a Montessori take-off kit can help manage waiting times and pressure changes.
Here is a table summarizing the tricks related to each mode of transportation:
| Mode of transport | Activities Montessori | Recommended tools |
|---|---|---|
| Car | Area of activity | Storage pouches |
| Train | Sensory exploration | Drawing requirements |
| Aircraft | Fine handling activities | Take-off kit |
For more advice on the implementation of the Montessori method, see this in-depth article on how to set up the Montessori method at home.
