With family in different areas of the state, we spend a lot of our time in the car. Toddlers only have so much patience for long car rides and a crying baby brother doesn’t help. For the most part, we don’t do screen time in the car unless it’s an extremely long road trip, so I like to be able to have some fun Montessori-inspired activities and toys to use. These are usually a mix of activities I’ve created, Target/dollar store finds (of course), or some of our Montessori materials that I’ve modified for car use. Here are some of our current favorites:
Weather and Clothing Sorting:
One of my favorite ways to utilize sorting and matching activities on the go is with cookie sheet “magnet trays”. I print the cards on card stock, laminate them with this laminator that I LOVE, and attach adhesive magnets to the back. The magnets can be re-used for new card sets later on. Asher has been really curious about weather lately and asking about items to wear for certain weather types so I thought he’d enjoy this sorting. I tried to use photos of the actual items that he has so that it would be easier for him to make connections. You could use this tray and magnets idea for any type of sorting activity. They’re great for puzzles too!
Picture to Item Vehicle Matching:
We ALWAYS have to have at least one “trucks” activity in the mix, so this one was a definite win for Asher. I glued heavy-duty magnets to the back of our On the Road TOOB set to match to laminated cards with adhesive magnets on the back. He loves working with this activity and pointing out these vehicles when he seems them outside the window as we drive! I will switch this out for a new matching activity when he tires of it. Click here to subscribe to my newsletter and get a free download for these Vehicle Matching Cards sent to your inbox!
Other Montessori-Inspired Toys:
- one| Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Activity Pads
- two| Buckle Toy
- three| Tangle Jr. Fidget Toys
- four| Tangram Travel Games
- five| Mini Doodle Board
- six| Melissa & Doug Color Blast
Keeping it Organized:
Everything being organized in the car just makes things easier and keeps me happier. If you’re like me and have a need for organization in all places, here are a few ideas:
- Car Organizer| We have this one and this one, and they are both useful for different purposes
- Pencil Bags| I use these to store any small materials and card sets that I’ve made
How do you keep things calm in the car? What are some toys and activities that your toddlers love?
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