AVOID these at ALL COST!

Have you ever really thought about why you move?

Every step we take, every turn we make is guided by our minds.

Now think about this: what if every move your child makes is shaping their sense of self?

Pretty big, right?

Today, I’m diving into why movement is more than just muscle—it's mental!

And stick around, because I’m also going to show you how the way we set up our homes can either empower our kids or, without us realizing it, hold them back.

Now, here’s a question: have you ever unintentionally eaten that extra piece of chocolate, even when you told yourself you wouldn’t?

Yep, your mind told you to do it, and your body followed! This mind-body connection is so natural to us as adults, but for our kids, it’s just beginning.

Let’s make sure they’re learning it right from day one.

Before we jump into all the fun stuff, here’s a warning for parents.

The environment we create for our children at home—believe it or not—plays a huge role in their self-esteem and confidence. Certain ‘baby gear’ that’s become so common in households can actually limit your child’s natural movements and subconsciously send them the message that their choices are restricted, and putting their bodies in abnormal positions - which hinder natural development.

Cribs, playpens, jumpy seats, walkers, bumbo seats - these are lethal to your child’s development - using them can make your child feel confined - and frankly, not a part of the family they are learning to fit into.

They don’t get the chance to make choices, explore, or own their movement. This restriction, over time, can even affect their confidence and self-worth.

So what can we do instead?

The solution is simple: set up a home that invites curiosity, exploration, and independence.

Instead of barriers, think about open spaces where your child can crawl, roll, and reach for things they’re naturally drawn to. Here are three easy tips:

Tip #1: Low Furniture

Try using low shelves for toys and books (so popular in the Montessori environments).

This way, kids can make choices on their own—‘I want that block,’ or ‘I’ll choose this book.’

Each small decision builds confidence and teaches them that they have a say in what they do.

Tip #2: Floor Time Freedom

Replace long hours in restrictive devices with time on a play mat or a soft rug, in front of a full body length mirror.

Let them stretch, kick, and explore without limits - and observe their bodies when doing it.

Even a small open space can become a mini adventure zone!

Tip #3: Mindful Mobility Tools

When it comes to toys, choose ones that naturally encourage your child’s movement and help them develop their sense of will.

For the youngest babies, try something simple like a Montessori ring on a ribbon.

Hang it just within reach to encourage reaching, grasping, and exploring—all of which strengthen their fine motor skills and coordination.

For older, more mobile babies, set up a Montessori basket with balls they can reach for, pick up, and drop. This encourages them to crawl, roll, and practice more complex movements, allowing them to explore cause and effect while making choices on their own.

For toddlers and older children, a low table and chair create the perfect setup for independent activities. Here, they can sit, work, and explore materials in their own space. This setup gives them the autonomy to choose their activities and practice focusing on tasks, all while fostering a sense of responsibility and self-motivation.

Purposeful movement isn’t just about physical development; it’s the foundation of confidence, independence, and self-worth. So let’s build homes that tell our kids, ‘Yes, you’re free to explore, to move, and to grow in ways that make you feel powerful.’ Let’s raise kids who know that every step they take is their own!

You’ve got this and HAPPY PARENTING!