Wood remains a go-to material, valued for its smooth feel, durability and ease of care, offering reassurance to parents mindful of what surrounds their child. Organic cotton complements this natural approach, particularly in the play mat designed for the first few months. The MILO set, meanwhile, is made in France from foam, a material chosen for little hands beginning to explore. Each toy focuses on one area of learning at a time — motor skills, colours or sensory awareness — a principle that guides both the choice of materials and the design of the shapes.

Caring for Montessori toys is generally straightforward. Wipe wooden parts with a slightly damp cloth, without using harsh cleaning products. Fabric or organic cotton items, such as a play mat, need care suited to their materials. When it comes to storage, each toy benefits from having its own place within a child’s reach, so they can pick it up themselves and put it away in their own time — a detail that matters in a room designed to encourage independence.