Facebook Marketplace or Craig’s List are the most used online places to find local resources. There are also specific Facebook groups that bring Montessori sellers and buyers together. You may also find groups that are specific to your area. Keep in mind that things sell fast! Here are a few groups that you can join.
Facebook Groups to Join
- Montessori Materials for Sale
- Authentic Montessori Material For Sale
- Montessori Material For Sale – US and Canada
- Montessori Materials – Buy & Sell – Product Reviews – Printables & DIY
Garage Sales/Flea Markets/Antique Stores/Consignments/Thrift Stores
It helps knowing what you are looking for specifically when exploring the chaotic hodgepodge of used things at these types of locations. However, it also helps to keep an open mind and keep your eye out for things you can get creative with. Here is a basic guide to help you get started.
- Natural containers: baskets, wooden boxes, chests, tins, party trays/platters, bowls, picnic paper plate holders
- Wooden trays: bamboo drawer organizers, wooden trays from Melissa and Doug toys, bed breakfast trays
- Travel knickknacks: Look for souvenirs from various countries around the world that might work for your continent boxes. Also look for postcards or coins. Travel coffee table books.
- Practical life materials: placemats, small glass water pitcher, non-plastic child sized plates/cups/bowls
- Miniatures: dollhouse miniatures or other miniature objects that would work for your Language shelves (See 5 DIY Montessori Ideas).
- Jars: glass spice jars, baby food jars, or other small jars with a lid that you could use for DIY sensorial works.
- Wood or fabric scraps: These could come in handy when making DIY materials.
- Small mats/rugs to use with Montessori works
- Shelves: you can always paint an old shelf white or stain it.
- Gardening supplies: plants or pots
Toy Rentals or Swap Groups
Toy rental companies, toy libraries, and toy swap events are less common, but it is worth it to search around. In an effort to reduce consumption especially when it comes to toys that kids quickly out grow, some companies offer a rental option for their high quality toys. Most only serve a specific local area, so you’ll have to do some digging around. Here are a few online you can check out.
RutabagaToyLibrary.com (Philadelphia)
TheToyNest.com (Falls Church, Virginia)
TheToyary.com (Boston)
Cubos.ca (Canada)
TheEleFant.com (India)
