How to Create a Montessori 'Yes Space' at Home for Calmer Days
A Montessori Yes Space is one of the easiest and most effective ways to bring calm into your home. If you find yourself constantly saying “no, stop, careful”, your environment might be working against you.
A Yes Space is a child friendly area where everything your child can reach is safe, accessible and appropriate for them to use. This gives them freedom to explore while giving you a chance to relax. No hovering. No constant redirecting. No overwhelm.
Why a Yes Space matters:
• Encourages independence
• Builds confidence through free exploration
• Reduces the need for correction
• Supports deep focus
• Creates calmer routines
• Lowers parental stress
What a Yes Space looks like:
A low shelf with a handful of activities, a small table and chair, child safe tools, a comfortable rug and a space free from hazards or tempting objects that cause power struggles.
How to create a Yes Space at any age:
• Remove unsafe or emotionally triggering items
• Add practical and purposeful materials
• Keep the area tidy and minimal
• Rotate activities weekly
• Follow your child’s interests
• Ensure everything has a place
If you are setting up a Yes Space in the kitchen, start with child sized tools. Real utensils that work. A sturdy silicone placemat that stays put. A small apron they can put on independently. Little things that make a big difference in how capable they feel.
Creating a Yes Space does not make your home perfect.
It just makes it possible. Possible for calm. Possible for connection. Possible for your child to grow without constant interruptions. And possible for you to enjoy parenting a little more.