When the Christmas tree came out, I realized that we had a nice little corner full of potential. Instead of returning our dining table to this corner, I changed this to a play space.

I experimented a bit and moved the girls’ kitchen area here, as well as a small table and chairs for a writing space. It felt crowded. I was finally inspired by some new-to-us plastic spools. I then settled on dedicating this area to be a building space rather having several types of toys here. The girls will use the kitchen things wherever it is moved to, but blocks have been hit or miss. Perhaps a dedicated space would change that!

I added some loose parts on this shelf. I have since replaced the small blocks with a tin full of rocks. All of the things on this shelf, except the people, are re-purposed materials.

Greysen and Moon have been building far more than they did with the blocks tucked away in a clear container. Go figure?

Greysen and Moon both use the spools most often.

As I was setting this up, I also decided to clear out our toy basket. Not just clear out, but get rid of, many things – something I have wanted to do since I read that Kylie from How We Montessori has no toy baskets. I couldn’t imagine not having a catch-all basket for the numerous toys that fit nowhere. Interestingly, the toys I felt guilty about putting away because the girls use them have not been missed.

The girls have been so engaged in building throughout the day! I plan on switching out their other shelf to create a similarly dedicated space. I’m watching their play closely to see what makes the most sense for them.  Do you have any spaces like this? I’d love to see them.