The Floor Mirror
A low mirror, and a child who spends long minutes discovering that face is their own.
The Floor Mirror is a Montessori activity for a child aged 12 to 18 months. Area: Sensorial. Time: 5-10 min.
What the activity builds
Build self awareness, and watch their own movement happen at the same time they make it.
The materials
- An unbreakable mirror, securely mounted on the wall at floor height
- A mat or blanket in front of it
- A scarf or hat to try on, optional
How to do it, step by step
- Set them up sitting or on their tummy in front of the mirror.
- Sit behind them, a little back, without talking.
- Let them look for as long as they want, this can last several minutes.
- If they search for you in the mirror, smile without stepping in.
- Drape a scarf over their head and let them discover themselves that way.
The parent's role
Show once, then step back. Resist the urge to narrate the whole time. The mirror does all the work on its own, and your words pull their attention away toward you instead. Your quiet presence behind them is enough to make the exploring feel safe.
Safety
The mirror must be unbreakable and BOLTED to the wall, never just propped up: a mirror tipping over onto a child is a serious accident. Check the mounting regularly.
You remain the sole judge of what is right for your child. These activities are offered for educational and recreational purposes: they do not replace medical advice or the guidance of an early childhood professional.
Ways to adapt the activity
- Easier: just a few seconds, held in your arms.
- Harder: they watch themselves handle an object while looking in the mirror.
- Extension: hang a photo of them nearby, and look at both together.
Up next
More activities for a 12 to 18 months child.
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