❤️❤️

When we bought this IKEA floor cushion I never dreamed he'd be pulling himself up with it at 5 months. While I never want to push my children into things before they are ready, I am known to introduce materials a tad late. I have never drawn specific attention to the cushion. I didn't have to teach him anything. I don't help him. He simply explores it as he is interested. Staying "hands off" during this gross motor development process helps him to learn his own abilities and limits for himself. He develops confidence based on his own achievements and doesn't rely on me for exploration or entertainment. Of course we spend LOTS of time talking, singing, snuggling and interacting (especially during care times - feeding and changing). I hold him all the time and carry him in a wrap as well. But his uninhibited floor time with materials that invite movement is a huge part of his life. As always I'm thankful for the Montessori Method and RIE for teaching me to prepare and then step back, observe, and follow my child.