If you're interested in toddler independence, follow these 13 Montessori-inspired accounts

First developed by Maria Montessori more than a hundred years ago in Rome, Montessori schools have exploded in popularity over the past few decades. Moms and dads who are on board with the teachings have turned them into a parenting lifestyle, and many of them have turned to social media to learn and share their own methods.

A plethora of social-media accounts are filled with Montessori teachings and inspiration — from educational activities and creative play ideas to tips on teaching your kids independence and helping them master life skills.

If you're invested in the Montessori method, these 13 accounts are worth a follow.

Lauren of @modernmontimama has plenty of suggestions on how to keep the kids entertained while learning, whether it's around the house or out in the yard — "Nature provides the best materials," she said in a recent post.

The account also showcases easy ways kids can help out with chores, promoting both independence and fine motor skills (be sure to check out the video of little K. adorably focused on peeling boiled eggs).

Theresa of @montessoriinreallife is a certified Montessori teacher and mom of two. The account is filled with interesting graphics with prompts such as "Encouraging Social Skills at the Playground" and "Reducing the Sunscreen Struggle" that parents may find practical and helpful.

@schoolathomeandbeyond is the perfect place to turn to if you're looking for some homeschooling inspiration. Markëta brings her two kids on the coolest "homeschool field trips" you could imagine. She's constantly coming up with new educational games for her kids — ages 5 and 7 — and you're going to want to add some of them to your own family to-do list.

Gigi, the Montessori mama behind @_mommy.g_, started studying the educational method after her daughter's Montessori preschool closed last year because of the pandemic. Since then, she's built a devoted following as she's delved into Montessori teachings and shared what she's learned along the way, including lots of pointers on respectful and gentle parenting.

Although moms dominate the hashtags on social media, there are great fathers out there offering their unique perspectives as well. I love the amazing car-themed activities Chris from @montessoridadsway came up with for his son Bubby, and the account showcases plenty of other sensory fun.

India and Raye of @montessori_melaninmamas spotlight Black mothers raising and educating their kids with the Montessori method. They even created a guide to help other mamas get started. The account is filled with adorable appearances from kids M., King, and Ro, who love their shelf work, open-ended play, and sensory time.

Practicing independence and life skills are huge aspects of Montessori learning, and @lauren_mejia_ and her son have many examples of that on their TikTok account.

A 1-year-old serving their own breakfast and helping to cook? It's absolutely possible.

@missfarah.tutorials is heavy on learning activities for kids in every developmental stage, and many of them can be made from materials you probably already have around the house. Occasionally, you may also see a cute, kid-friendly recipe, which is a nice bonus.

@imwarrenkim is another Montessori dad documenting life with a little one, but he's not afraid to show the bumps along the road. There will always be a little spilled milk on the way to an independent toddler, and that's OK.

@lauralove5514 is a gentle-parenting advocate and Montessori mom. Her son Jonah is already using the Montessori methods that he's learned to make coffee and avocado toast (which must be seen to be believed). He even makes smoothies with his 3-year-old big brother. The account does an amazing job of showcasing just how many skills the Montessori method can teach even the youngest kids.

This adorable account showcases how Montessori is shaping twins Jax and Juju. These incredibly cute "Jamaican gentleman" are learning how to dress themselves, and their mom offers lots of helpful tips on how to get your kids ready to put their clothes on by themselves.

@montessorionmars is run by a former Montessori guide and school owner, and it's full of helpful information for parents just starting out. There are suggested scripts for turning a negative phrase into a positive, motivational one, as well as pointers on how to get through those moments when your kids test your patience.

@montessori_madre celebrates active play and nature play with adorable little ones Papa and Nito. The account gives followers a fascinating look at what Montessori is like for very young babies, and why it's never too early to get started.