Living in Los Angeles with a passion for Montessori can feel like a treasure hunt—there’s so much to explore, from the bustling streets of Santa Monica to the cozy corners of Echo Park. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or just someone curious about bringing Montessori magic into your home, one question often pops up: Where do I find those beautiful, hands-on materials—and how can I do it without breaking the bank? Lucky for us, LA is a goldmine for both local shopping and creative DIY solutions. Let’s dive into how you can source Montessori materials right here in the City of Angels or craft them yourself with a little LA flair.
Local Shopping: Where to Hunt in LA
Montessori materials—those iconic wooden blocks, colorful beads, and tactile treasures—are designed to spark curiosity and independence in kids. But they can come with a hefty price tag if you’re eyeing premium brands like Nienhuis or Gonzagarredi. The good news? LA has options for every budget, and you don’t need to scour the globe to find them. Also you can check the near by stores around Montessori schools in LA.
Start with specialty toy stores. Places like The Acorn Store in Santa Monica or Kip’s Toyland at the Original Farmers Market offer Montessori-inspired goodies—think wooden stacking toys, sensory boards, and sorting sets. These spots might not carry full classroom kits, but they’re perfect for picking up a few key pieces to get started. Plus, you’re supporting local businesses, which always feels good in a city as community-driven as ours.
For a deeper dive, check out Montessori supply retailers with a local presence. Some online stores, like Montessori Outlet or Alison’s Montessori, have warehouses in California, meaning faster shipping to LA (and sometimes lower costs). Call ahead—they might even let you pick up directly if you’re near their hubs. If you’re lucky enough to catch a pop-up or educational fair—like those hosted by the LA Montessori Association—you might snag discounted materials or connect with vendors who cater to homeschoolers and small classrooms.
Don’t sleep on second-hand gems, either. LA’s thrift stores and marketplaces are a Montessori parent’s secret weapon. Hit up Goodwill in Silver Lake or browse Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for gently used Pink Towers, bead chains, or even sensory trays. Montessorians often pass along their supplies when their kids outgrow them, and in a city this big, there’s always someone ready to share the love. Pro tip: Search terms like “Montessori wooden” or “homeschool materials” to narrow it down.
DIY Montessori: Crafting with an LA Twist
Not everything Montessori has to come with a fancy label—or a fancy price. The beauty of this approach is its simplicity, and with a little creativity, you can turn everyday items into learning tools right at home. Living in LA gives us a unique edge—think sunshine, craft stores galore, and a DIY spirit that thrives from Hollywood set designers to Venice Beach artisans.
Let’s start with the classics. A Pink Tower—those graduated wooden cubes—can be pricey, but you can recreate the concept with painted wooden blocks from Michael’s on Wilshire or even sturdy cardboard boxes stacked and taped together. Sand them smooth, paint them a soft pink (non-toxic, of course), and voilà—you’ve got a tower that teaches size and balance for a fraction of the cost.
For sensory play, raid your kitchen or hit up 99 Cents Only Stores on La Brea. Fill trays with dried beans, rice, or sand from a quick trip to Santa Monica Beach (shh, just a handful!). Add scoops, cups, or shells you’ve collected from Malibu—suddenly, you’ve got a tactile experience that rivals any store-bought bin. Bonus: It’s endlessly customizable for whatever your little one’s into.
Need a practical life station? LA’s farmers’ markets—like the one in Hollywood on Sundays—are your best friend. Grab a few small baskets, some mini tongs from Dollar Tree, and seasonal goodies like oranges or walnuts. Set up a sorting or pouring activity that doubles as a snack prep—because who doesn’t love a two-for-one?
And for those gorgeous geometric solids? Skip the woodworking class and head to Joann Fabrics in Glendale. Pick up some foam shapes, paint them in earthy tones, and let your child explore 3D concepts hands-on. They might not be hardwood, but they’ll do the job—and you’ll have cash left over for a coffee at Alfred’s on Melrose.
Why It’s Worth It
Whether you’re shopping local or getting crafty, sourcing Montessori materials in LA is about more than just stuff—it’s about building a space where your child can grow, explore, and thrive. The Montessori way isn’t about perfection; it’s about intention. So, next time you’re strolling through The Grove or digging through a thrift bin in Atwater Village, keep an eye out. That perfect piece—or the spark for your next DIY project—might be waiting.
Have a favorite LA spot for Montessori finds or a DIY hack you swear by? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re making it work in our wild, wonderful city!