A busy board has been a game-changer in our household, providing endless entertainment and developmental benefits for our little ones. In this post, I’ll share our personal experience with busy boards and offer an honest review of the one we purchased.

What is a Busy Board?

A busy board, also known as an activity board, is designed to engage babies and toddlers through touch, sight, and sound. These boards feature various household objects and materials, encouraging children to explore different textures and concepts. Parents and kids love them because they can keep a child entertained and occupied for extended periods.

Busy boards come in a wide range of sizes, designs, and activities. They can be simple with just a few activities or more complex with numerous interactive elements. They can be made from cardboard for temporary use or solid wood for durability. There is no set formula for creating the perfect busy board, which makes them versatile and customisable.

Are busy boards Montessori-friendly?

Strictly speaking, busy boards are not traditionally Montessori-friendly because they don’t isolate a single skill, which is a key Montessori principle. Montessori toys typically focus on one concept to avoid overwhelming the child. However, busy boards can still be a valuable addition to a Montessori home if they suit your family's needs and preferences.

While you might not find a busy board in a Montessori classroom, many Montessori-inspired homes incorporate them. They can provide children with a variety of sensory experiences and opportunities for fine motor skill development.

This means that you probably wouldn’t find a busy board in a pure Montessori classroom. However, a Montessori home can have items that are not necessarily Montessori-friendly but still right for the family.

The image below shares some principles for choosing Montessori-friendly toys:

Our busy board experience

We bought our busy board in 2017 when Ryaan was about eight months old. As a new Montessori parent, I was excited to introduce it to him. Four years later, it’s still a favourite in our household. Ryaan, now four, continues to enjoy fiddling with the different latches and components. It’s one of the few toys that has remained accessible and engaging from the beginning.

Seeing Ryaan play with the busy board from such a young age was a joy. He would often focus on one element at a time, which showed me that even though the board had many activities, it didn’t overwhelm him.

Now, our daughter Dayna, at nine months old, is starting to explore the busy board. It’s amazing to watch her develop the same curiosity and skills that Ryaan did.

Little Ben’s Board review

We purchased our busy board from LittleBensBoard on Etsy, and it has been a fantastic investment. Here’s why:

Pros

• Variety of Activities: The board offers a wide range of activities, keeping children engaged for years as they master each skill.

• Excellent Quality: Made with high-quality materials, the board has stood up to over four years of use without any parts becoming loose or worn.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Its simple, clean design fits well with any room decor.

Cons

• Size and Weight: The board is quite large and heavy, requiring wall mounting to ensure it’s safe for the child to tug and pull on.

• Cost: While it is expensive, there are more affordable options available, and DIY is also an option.

Where can I get a busy board?

If you prefer buying over making, here are some great options:

• LittleBensBoard on Etsy: This is the one we own and love.

• Melissa & Doug Latches Board on Amazon: A popular and accessible choice.

• BusyKidsUK on Etsy: Offers beautiful, engaging boards in different shapes and forms.

• BusyBabyLV on Etsy: Known for quality and durability, and has the most beautiful pastel and neutral designs. If I had to buy one again, I would try one of theirs.

For more options, explore the extensive selection available on Etsy here.

Can I make a busy board myself?

DIY busy boards are a popular option for crafty parents. You’ll need:

• Materials: Latches, hooks, bells, and other household items.

• Base: A sturdy base like poster board, cardboard, plywood, or wood.

Make sure the base is strong enough to hold all the items securely. If you’re looking for a detailed guide, check out this tutorial from Stay at Home Crafter.

A busy board has been one of the most enduring and loved toys in our home. It has provided our children with endless hours of exploration and learning. Whether you buy one or make it yourself, a busy board is a fantastic addition to any household.

Do you have a busy board at home? If not, I hope this post inspires you to get or make one. Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!