How I Keep My One-Year-Old Entertained Without Screens: Montessori Toys from Amazon

As all moms know, keeping a toddler entertained is a chore. As a work-from-home mom, I need to keep my little one entertained—preferably without relying on screens. While there are definitely moments when I turn on a show (Yes, I’m looking at you, Cocomelon) I’ve found a few Montessori-inspired toys that keep her happy, engaged, and learning.

Let’s face it: Working from home with a toddler isn’t exactly a Zen experience. In between conference calls and deadline crunches, I often find myself trying to juggle important tasks while my toddler demands snacks, attention, and to “play” with everything in sight. The toys I’m about to mention have been lifesavers, helping keep her occupied in a meaningful way, while also giving me those precious few minutes to finish a project.

If you’re a fellow parent trying to balance work and toddler entertainment, or if you’re simply looking for some great toys to help your one-year-old learn and grow, these Montessori-inspired finds from Amazon are the perfect solution.

1. Busy Board: A Toddler’s First Problem-Solving Adventure

I’m not going to lie—when I first bought a busy board, I wasn’t sure how much my one-year-old would be into it. And it did take her a minute to figure it out. But once she did, turns out, it’s a major hit! This simple yet engaging toy has lots of lights and switches that keep my toddler’s little hands busy for a solid 15–20 minutes (which, for any parent of a one-year-old, is like a mini vacation).

2. Wooden Balance Beam: A Fun Way to Build Confidence (and Get Out Some Energy)

Toddlers have an endless supply of energy, and no matter how much I try to wear it out with walks or dance parties, there’s always more. This Tiny Land Wooden Balance Beam is a perfect way to channel that energy into something both fun and educational. This one requires some supervision for a 1 year old. But still a super fun way for them to learn balance and run off some (never ending) energy.

3. Toddler Standing Tower: The Ultimate Kitchen Helper (and Your New Best Friend)

The standing tower has become one of my go-to tools. It allows my toddler to safely stand at the kitchen counter while I cook, so she can “help” (or, let’s be real, make a giant mess while she tries to help "stir" the flour).

4. Pound A Ball Drop Toy:

At one, my toddler is just beginning to learn about colors and basic shapes. The pound a ball drop toy promotes dexterity, hand eye coordination, manipulation, arm movement, and cause and effect. All while keeping her entertained.

5. Wooden Toddler Gym: Let’s Get Physical (But Keep It Safe)

The toddler gym is the perfect way to let your little one burn off some energy safely. It’s like a mini playground in your living room, allowing your toddler to climb, slide, and strengthen their muscles.

6. Toddler Couch: This One is Her all Time Favorite!

Although this isn't exactly considered montessori, this toddler couch has been a game-changer. It’s not just a place to sit; it’s her little personal space where she can “read” her books, or just relax after a round of energetic play. She absolutely loves sitting there pretending to be a little adult.

7. Adena Montessori Wooden Toy:

My toddler is obsessed with putting the little balls through the hole over and over again. They’re great for developing fine motor skills and sensory exploration, this is one of her favorite toys.

8. Neutral Rainbow Wooden Ring Stacker Toy:

Stacking rings are a classic Montessori toy, and this one has a sleek, neutral design that matches any playroom. The rings are designed to encourage focus, dexterity, and problem-solving. This toy is simple, non-toxic, and engaging. Plus, it’s designed to last well into the toddler years.

9. Melissa & Doug Shape Sorting Cube: A Classic for a Reason

Shape sorting toys have stood the test of time for a reason—they help toddlers develop spatial awareness, problem-solving, and hand-eye coordination. This classic wooden shape sorting cube from Melissa & Doug is a great way to introduce toddlers to basic geometric shapes while keeping them engaged for hours.

10. LeapFrog Learning Friends 100 Words Book: A Fun (But Not Strictly Montessori) Way to Learn

Okay, so this one might not technically be considered Montessori, but it’s still a favorite in our household. The LeapFrog Learning Friends book is a fun way for toddlers to learn words and phrases, enhancing their vocabulary and early literacy skills. It’s interactive and engaging, even if it does have a bit of a tech component.

11. Baby Ball Pit: This One Keeps Her Entertained for Hours

This one is so powerful that I actually keep it in my office for those times when I am desperate to get some work done. She plays in this for an hour at a time and is almost completely silent the entire time, which is no small achievement for a 1 year old. She also loves just laying in it kicking her little legs.

Final Thoughts:

Raising a toddler without relying on screens might seem daunting at times, but with these Montessori-inspired toys, keeping my little one entertained—and learning—has become much easier. These toys not only support her development but also give me the time I need to stay productive and sane.

Of course, I still have those moments when Cocomelon is my best friend, but with a solid collection of these toys, I’m confident that screen time is just one small piece of the puzzle in helping her grow and explore the world in meaningful ways.

If you’re looking to keep your little one engaged and learning without the temptation of screens, these toys are a great place to start. Here’s to building essential skills and creating lasting memories—without a tablet in sight!