Mobiles in tune with the Montessori Method
What are they
Mobiles are a decorative structure, often lightweight and simple, suspended to turn freely in the air.
There are so many options out there that it might feel overwhelming to choose one or decide where to start.
We could offer so many mobiles to our children, but we need to bear in mind what they are developmentally capable of.
We know that babies can focus their sight at a 20/30cm distance in the first few weeks.
Around 3 weeks old a baby is ready to observe objects in motion.
From about 2 months old, they start distinguishing colours.
Montessori mobiles
The Montessori mobiles are not just visually appealing, but they also provide age-appropriate stimulation to a baby. These mobiles are not only carefully designed with the intention of not overwhelming the baby but also allow your child to begin developing his concentration.
Their lightweight design allows them to move naturally, allowing your child to track their movement. Hopefully, there’s not a tornado around.
These mobiles support the teaching of cause-effect through natural materials, elements and the child’s observation, instead of battery-noise-powered toys.
The sequence
There is a logical sequence of Mobiles in tune with the Montessori Method.
They all are aesthetically pleasing and provide what the child is developmentally ready for without overstimulating him.
There are 4 different types of Montessori mobiles.
o The Munari Mobile
It is a high-contrast geometric mobile that can be the ideal first mobile for a baby. As the baby develops his tracking skills, he improves his concentration and focus.
Ideal for a baby approximately 3-6 weeks old.
o Octahedron Mobile
Introduces the primary colours once your baby is ready to recognise colour. As primary colours are still quite contrasting, the baby can differentiate them.
Ideal for a baby approximately 5-8 weeks old.
o Gobbi Mobile
It is often introduced when the child can see the full spectrum of colours.
This mobile introduces shades of the same colour (colour gradations).
Ideal for a baby approximately 7-9 weeks old.
o The Dancers Mobile
It is an iconic mobile that features dynamic human forms.
This mobile offers a new challenge for the child as every single part moves separately.
Ideal for a baby approximately 9-12 weeks old.
But what next?
From 12 weeks old, you could introduce grasping a ball, bell, wooden ring…
You could hand ANYTHING you think your child will enjoy, tracking, grasping, touching… (as long as it’s safe)
When to introduce them - week timeline
When we can offer them
Mobiles should be introduced to the baby when he is active and alert.
I would recommend avoiding placing mobiles on top of the cot, as they might be a distraction for the child when trying to go to sleep. As well, it is a safety hazard.
How – safety first
Mobiles can be hung from the ceiling, baby gym or even a flexible mobile arm.
Just be creative if you don’t have the space.
The majority of mobiles made for babies are safe. However, it is crucial to check anything that we offer to a child that is not sharp or contains small pieces that could be a choking hazard.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) urges parents and caregivers to securely attach mobiles to ceilings, side rails or walls to ensure that they don’t fall on an infant.
Please don’t leave a child unattended with a mobile he could reach.
