Montessori Inspired Age Appropriate Toys (9 to 12 Years)

Children in this plane of development begin to explore play at a different level. They enjoy arts and crafts, science kits, and outdoor activities. Boys in particular, still enjoy more complex building sets. Both boys and girls are interested in reading fiction stories, especially those in a series, magazines, and how-to projects. They may also develop a special interest in hobbies or collecting items of interest. These activities help foster a new sense of independence, rational thought, and learning skills. Here are some ideas for the 9-12 year old.

Montessori Inspired Age Appropriate Toys (9 to 12 Years)

9-12 years:

• Sports equipment (basketball hoops, soccer balls, inline skates, trampolines, footballs, jump ropes, bicycles)
• Pottery wheels
• Chemistry sets
• Microscopes
• Books, books, and more books
• Sewing machine
• Lego (Technics and Mindstorms)
• Snap circuitry boards
• Advanced art supplies such as origami paper, pastels, acrylic paints
• Strategy games
• Paint kits
• Garden kits
• Friendship bracelet books/kits
• Remote control cars
• Model kits
• Jigsaw puzzles
• Games that allow them to quiz each other, such as Professor Noggins cards or Brainquest

Whatever stage your child or children are in, it’s important to remember that toys and play time still define a lot of who they are. Watch your child play and join in. Encourage them to be creative. Ask why something works or why they built it the way they did. Above all else, listen to what they have to say. You might just learn a thing or two along the way.

Read more on this Series:

• The Purpose of Play in the Montessori Method
• Montessori Inspired Age Appropriate Toys (Birth to 3 Years)
• Montessori Inspired Age Appropriate Toys (3 to 6 Years)
• Montessori Inspired Age Appropriate Toys (6 to 9 Years)

As much as possible, NAMC’s web blog reflects the Montessori curriculum as provided in its teacher training programs. We realize and respect that Montessori schools are unique and may vary their schedules and offerings in accordance with the needs of their individual communities. We hope that our readers will find our articles useful and inspiring as a contribution to the global Montessori community.
© North American Montessori Center - originally posted in its entirety at Montessori Teacher Training on Friday, December 7, 2007.