Tips & Resources
Sophie Shay is Toronto’s go-to expert on all things kids’ spaces.
Sophie loves sharing helpful reframes and practical tips to incorporate Montessori principles into your homes to bring more calm, creativity and connection to life with littles.
She leads workshops in Montessori schools and parent groups across the Greater Toronto Area (she has spoken to 200+ parents and counting!) and appears as a guest expert on live television.
For media requests, workshops and brand partnerships, contact Sophie directly at hello@chezshaydesigns.com.
As Seen on
Media Appearances
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Breakfast Television
September 6, 2024
I share with hosts Meredith Shaw and Sid Seixeiro my top tips to maximize the spaces we have at home with kids.
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CTV Your Morning
August 23, 2024
I share tips with host Kelsey McEwen on easing the back-to-school transition for families with young kids, using Montessori principles.
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CHCH Morning Live
July 1, 2024
I share tips with host Louis Butko on easing the transition from school to summer break for families with young kids, using Montessori principles.
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CP24 Breakfast
June 19, 2024
I share tips with hosts Jennifer Hsiung and Nick Dixon on easing the transition from school to summer break for families with young kids, using Montessori principles.
Blog Posts
Sorry! That’s Not Montessori
Montessori is a term that is being tossed around often. Everywhere you look, toys or furniture are being marketed as being “Montessori.” As a kids' space designer who specializes in using child development and Montessori principles in all her designs, I'm here to demystify the myths surrounding this popular term.
How to Design an Art Space for Kids
I'm excited to share my top 5 tips for creating your very own kids' art space. Whether you're working with an idle corner or have the room for a dedicated space (just like my recent client project), I can promise you it's absolutely worth it!
6 Stylish Ways to Display Kids’ Artwork
Are you drowning in your kids’ artwork? You’re not alone! Here are my top 6 stylish ways to display kids' artwork - none of which involves taking over your fridge door! - plus, my #1 tip to let the rest of it go, guilt-free.
How to Design a Purposeful Playroom
Learn all about “The 6 Zones of Play,” the framework I use on all my client playroom projects, as well as in our own home!