At 18 months, toddlers are full of curiosity and energy. Every day brings discoveries as they learn to walk more confidently, explore their environment, and develop budding independence.
This stage is a crucial time to introduce activities that support growth, encourage self-reliance, and nurture their natural desire to explore. Montessori-inspired activities are a wonderful way to do just that.
The Montessori approach emphasizes independence, hands-on learning, and respect for a child’s natural development.
For toddlers, especially around 18 months, the right activities can help them build fine and gross motor skills, improve coordination, and even encourage concentration and problem-solving—all while keeping play fun and engaging.
At Dannico Woodworks, we believe a child’s environment plays a huge role in their development.
That’s why we design durable, child-centered furniture to support independence and learning.
With the right setup at home and thoughtfully chosen Montessori activities, you can create an environment where your toddler thrives.
Why Montessori Activities Matter at 18 Months
Toddlers are at a sensitive stage where their brains and bodies are absorbing information at an incredible rate.
The Montessori method encourages giving them opportunities to practice real-life skills, make choices, and engage in purposeful play.
This not only supports developmental milestones but also builds confidence and a love for learning.
Some key benefits of Montessori activities for toddlers include:
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Encouraging independence and self-confidence.
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Strengthening fine motor and gross motor skills.
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Improving concentration and problem-solving.
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Promoting a sense of order and responsibility.
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Helping them connect with their environment in meaningful ways.
Best Montessori Activities for 18-Month-Old Toddlers
1. Practical Life Activities
Montessori emphasizes “real work” that toddlers see adults doing every day. At 18 months, children love imitating and being helpful. Some safe, age-appropriate activities include:
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Wiping a table with a small cloth.
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Transferring dry beans or rice from one bowl to another with a spoon.
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Helping water plants with a small watering can.
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Carrying laundry to a basket.
These tasks not only teach responsibility but also build coordination.
2. Object Permanence Games
By this age, toddlers understand that objects exist even when they’re out of sight. Montessori-style activities like using a simple object permanence box (where a ball disappears into a hole and reappears in a drawer) reinforce problem-solving and cause-and-effect thinking.
3. Stacking and Sorting
Stacking wooden blocks or nesting cups is a great way to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
You can also introduce sorting activities, like grouping objects by color or size. Wooden toys and natural materials are ideal, as they provide a tactile, sensory-rich experience.
4. Gross Motor Activities
Eighteen-month-olds are constantly on the move. Montessori-friendly gross motor play might include:
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Climbing a toddler-safe Pikler triangle.
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Crawling through tunnels.
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Walking up and down low steps with support.
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Carrying lightweight objects around the room.
At Dannico Woodworks, we design furniture that doubles as safe exploration tools, giving toddlers freedom to move while staying safe.
5. Simple Puzzles
Chunky wooden puzzles with knobs are perfect for little hands. They promote spatial awareness, concentration, and problem-solving.
Start with puzzles that have just a few large pieces before moving on to more complex ones.
6. Art and Creative Play
Creative exploration is essential for self-expression. Montessori art activities should be simple and open-ended, such as:
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Drawing with large crayons.
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Finger painting with non-toxic paints.
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Using playdough to mold and shape.
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Sticking and pasting with safe paper cutouts.
Keep art supplies at a toddler-accessible level so they can choose and create independently.
7. Nature Exploration
Montessori places great importance on connecting with nature. At 18 months, toddlers benefit from outdoor exploration like:
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Collecting leaves, rocks, or flowers in a basket.
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Walking barefoot on grass or sand.
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Observing insects, birds, or clouds.
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Helping dig in the garden with a child-sized spade.
Nature experiences stimulate all the senses and help toddlers appreciate their environment.
8. Music and Rhythm
Toddlers naturally respond to rhythm and sound. Simple Montessori-friendly activities include:
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Shaking maracas or a tambourine.
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Listening to calming classical or folk music.
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Singing simple songs together.
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Exploring different sounds with a wooden xylophone.
Music enhances language development, rhythm, and coordination.
9. Practical Kitchen Activities
The kitchen is full of Montessori opportunities. At 18 months, your toddler can:
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Wash fruit in a small bowl of water.
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Tear lettuce for a salad.
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Spread soft butter on bread with a child-safe knife.
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Pour water into a small cup.
By involving your toddler in meal preparation, you foster independence and a positive relationship with food.
10. Reading and Language Activities
Language development is at its peak around 18 months. Montessori recommends reading simple, realistic books with clear images and few words. Encourage your toddler to:
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Point to objects in the book.
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Repeat familiar words.
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Choose their own books from a low, accessible shelf.
Pair reading with conversations, naming objects around the home, and singing songs to build vocabulary.
Tips for Creating a Montessori-Friendly Home Environment
The activities above work best when your home supports independence. Some easy adjustments include:
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Low shelves: Place toys and books at your toddler’s level.
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Child-sized furniture: Small chairs and tables give toddlers ownership of their space.
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Accessible tools: Use small brooms, cups, and utensils so your child can participate in daily tasks.
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Order and simplicity: Offer a few toys at a time, neatly organized, to encourage focus and reduce overwhelm.
At Dannico Woodworks, we specialize in thoughtfully designed children’s furniture that makes these adjustments simple. From toddler towers to low shelves, our pieces help create a safe, supportive environment where your child can explore confidently.
FAQs
Are Montessori activities safe for 18-month-olds?
Yes, when chosen thoughtfully. Always supervise and provide child-safe tools and materials.
How long should my toddler do these activities?
Follow your child’s lead. Some toddlers may focus for a few minutes, others for longer. Consistency matters more than duration.
Do I need expensive Montessori materials?
Not at all. Many Montessori activities use everyday household items. The key is to make activities hands-on, purposeful, and accessible.
How many activities should I offer each day?
Keep it simple. Offer a few choices and rotate activities weekly to maintain interest without overwhelming your toddler.
Conclusion
Montessori activities for 18-month-old toddlers are about more than keeping little ones busy—they’re about nurturing independence, curiosity, and confidence.
By weaving in practical life skills, hands-on play, and opportunities to explore, you’re setting the stage for a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
At Dannico Woodworks, we’re proud to support families in creating child-friendly spaces that make Montessori living easier at home.
With thoughtfully designed furniture and practical ideas, we help parents foster independence in a safe, inspiring way.
What’s one Montessori-inspired activity you’re most excited to try with your toddler?
