How to Arrange a Montessori Tray and Shelf: A Practical Guide for Parents and Educators

Creating a beautiful and functional Montessori environment starts with how you present learning materials. One of the core elements of a Montessori setup is the intentional use of trays and shelves—a simple but powerful way to support a child’s development of independence, focus, and order.

Whether you’re preparing a space at home or in the classroom, here’s a step-by-step guide to arranging Montessori trays and shelves the Montessori way.

Why Montessori Trays and Shelves?

In a Montessori space, everything has a purpose. Materials are carefully chosen and displayed to promote engagement and concentration. Trays help organize individual activities, while open, low shelves allow children to access and return materials independently. This setup builds:

• Independence

• Concentration

• Responsibility

• A sense of order

  
  

Step 1: Choose the Right Shelf

Look for low, open shelves that are easily accessible to your child. The ideal Montessori shelf is:

• Child-height, so children can reach materials without adult help

• Open (not enclosed in bins or cabinets), so choices are visible

• Simple and neutral to minimize visual clutter

  
  

Step 2: Select the Right Trays

Each Montessori activity is presented on its own tray. Trays help define the activity and keep materials organized.

What to look for:

• Lightweight and easy to carry with two hands

• Raised edges to contain small items

• Large enough for all components, but not too large for little arms

• Neutral and uncluttered in appearance

You can use wooden trays, plastic trays, or even shallow baskets—whatever fits your space and materials best.

Step 3: Arrange the Shelf with Intention

Now comes the fun part—setting up your shelf! The arrangement should be thoughtful, clear, and inviting.

Tips for shelf setup:

• Left to right: Place activities from simplest on the left to most complex on the right, supporting how children naturally learn to read and sequence.

• Top to bottom: Think about categories by shelf level:

  • Top shelf: Practical life (pouring, spooning, folding, buttoning)

  • Middle shelf: Sensorial materials (color matching, textures, shapes)

  • Bottom shelf: Language and math (sandpaper letters, number rods)

    
    

Step 4: Keep It Minimal

Less is truly more in a Montessori environment. Children thrive when they’re not overwhelmed with choices. Start with 6–8 activities and rotate them regularly based on your child’s interests and developmental stage.

Avoid:

Overcrowded shelves

Mixing too many different types of activities in one space

Leaving out broken or incomplete materials

Step 5: Model the Process

Montessori isn’t just about what’s on the shelf—it’s about how the child uses it.

• Show your child how to carry a tray with two hands

• Demonstrate how to do the activity slowly and deliberately

• Return the tray to the same spot after use

This routine reinforces respect for materials and promotes independent learning.

Final Thoughts

A well-organized Montessori tray and shelf setup does more than just look good—it invites curiosity, supports self-discipline, and builds confidence. By taking a few mindful steps, you create a space that encourages your child to explore, choose, and learn independently.