What is Monti Kids and how does it work? Monti Kids is a subscription service that delivers Montessori-based educational toys and materials to your door every three months, designed for children aged 0-3 years. It offers a structured, play-based learning program with support for parents through video guides and a community forum.
Summary
- Monti Kids is a Montessori-based toy subscription service for children aged 0-3.
- Founder Zahra Kassam appeared on Shark Tank Season 10 seeking $200,000 for 2.5% equity.
- She secured a deal with Kevin O’Leary for $200,000 with a royalty agreement.
- Monti Kids experienced growth after Shark Tank but later announced a pause in toy sales.
- Zahra Kassam is now involved with The Mushroom Farm, a sustainability-focused project.
- The future of Monti Kids remains uncertain.
Monti Kids Shark Tank Update | Shark Tank Season 10
Monti Kids offers a unique approach to early childhood education. It delivers Montessori-inspired toys and learning materials right to your doorstep.
This subscription service helps parents foster their child’s development through play, exploration, and hands-on activities. But Monti Kids is more than just toys.
It provides a structured, stage-based curriculum designed to support children from birth to age three.
This comprehensive approach makes it a popular choice for parents seeking an alternative to traditional preschool programs.
The Monti Kids Story
Zahra Kassam, a former preschool teacher, founded Monti Kids. She was inspired by the Montessori method, an educational philosophy that emphasizes self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and a prepared environment.
As a new parent, Zahra realized how difficult it was to find high-quality, developmentally appropriate toys for her own children.
This sparked the idea for Monti Kids – a convenient and engaging way to bring the Montessori experience into homes.
Monti Kids on Shark Tank Season 10
1. Zahra Kassam’s Pitch
| Entrepreneur | Zahra Kassam |
|---|---|
| Business | Monti Kids – Montessori toy subscription |
| Ask | $200,000 for 2.5% equity |
| Deal | $200,000 for 2.5% equity + $2.50 royalty until $600,000 repaid |
| Shark | Kevin O’Leary |
| Season – Episode | Season 10 – Episode 12 |
| Original Air Date | February 10, 2019 |
| Website | Monti Kids |
| Key Points of Pitch |
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| Why Shark Accepted |
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2. Facing the Sharks
Zahra faced tough questions from the Sharks. They were initially skeptical of her company’s high valuation.
Some Sharks also questioned the uniqueness of Monti Kids compared to other toy subscription services.
Zahra had to defend her pricing and demonstrate the value her company provided. She emphasized the educational benefits of the Montessori method and the quality of the toys.
3. The Deal: Kevin O’Leary’s Royalties Offer
Kevin O’Leary, known for his shrewd business sense, offered Zahra a deal with a unique royalty structure.
He agreed to invest $200,000 for 2.5% equity. However, he also added a royalty component, requiring Monti Kids to pay him $10 per subscription until he recouped his initial investment.
After that, the royalty would decrease to $2.50 until he received a total of $600,000.
4. Why Zahra Accepted the Deal
Zahra accepted Kevin’s offer, even though it involved royalties. She believed in her company’s growth potential and felt confident she could meet the royalty obligations.
Partnering with Kevin also provided valuable expertise and exposure for Monti Kids.
Monti Kids Update
1. Company Growth and Revenue
Monti Kids experienced significant growth following their appearance on Shark Tank. The company’s revenue increased steadily, and they gained a large customer base.
However, they faced some challenges related to supply chain issues and scaling their operations to meet demand.
2. The Pivot
In 2023, Monti Kids announced a major shift in their business model. They stopped selling their Montessori-based toys and shifted their focus towards sustainability and education.
This decision was met with mixed reactions from customers and industry experts.
3. Zahra Kassam’s New Venture
Zahra Kassam, the founder of Monti Kids, launched a new project called The Mushroom Farm. This initiative aims to create a sustainable food system that can be replicated worldwide.
The Mushroom Farm focuses on regenerative agriculture, permaculture, and the development of innovative technologies.
4. What Happened to Monti Kids?
While Monti Kids no longer sells toys, the company still exists. They continue to provide educational resources and information on their website.
The future of Monti Kids is uncertain, but Zahra Kassam’s new venture suggests she is still passionate about creating positive change in the world.
What is Monti Kids and How Does it Work?
1. The Subscription Model
Monti Kids offers a subscription-based model. Parents choose a level based on their child’s age, and they receive a box of toys and materials every three months.
The levels are as follows:
- Level 0: Birth to 6 months
- Level 1: 6 to 12 months
- Level 2: 12 to 18 months
- Level 3: 18 to 24 months
- Level 4: 24 to 30 months
- Level 5: 30 to 36 months
- Level 6: 36 to 42 months
- Level 7: 42 months to 48 months
The cost of a subscription varies depending on the level.
2. Montessori-Based Learning
Monti Kids toys and materials are designed to align with the Montessori principles of sensory exploration, practical life skills, and cognitive development. They are made from high-quality, non-toxic materials and are carefully curated to support children at different stages of their development.
3. Support for Parents
Monti Kids provides parents with resources to help them understand and implement the Montessori approach. These resources include:
- Video guides: Demonstrating how to use the toys and materials
- Activity ideas: Suggesting ways to incorporate Montessori principles into everyday routines
- Online community: A forum for parents to connect with each other and share experiences
In addition, Monti Kids offers professional development workshops and resources for educators and caregivers.
Is Monti Kids Worth It?
Monti Kids was a popular choice for parents interested in the Montessori approach, but with the company’s shift away from toy sales, it’s worth considering if the remaining resources are a good fit for your family.
1. Benefits of Monti Kids
Even though the toy subscriptions have ended, Monti Kids still offers some valuable benefits for parents:
- High-quality materials: The toys were known for being durable and made with safe materials. If you can find them secondhand, they may still be a good investment.
- Educational value: The toys were designed to support key developmental skills.
- Convenience: The subscription box model delivered everything you needed right to your door.
- Parental support: Monti Kids provided guidance and resources to help parents use the toys effectively.
- Remaining online resources: Monti Kids still has a library of videos and articles available on their website. These can be helpful for understanding Montessori principles and setting up a learning environment at home.
2. Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick look at some of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
- Structured learning: Provides a clear framework for supporting your child’s development.
- Age-appropriate: Toys are carefully chosen to match your child’s stage.
- Engaging activities: Keeps children interested and learning through play.
Cons:
- Cost: Monti Kids was a premium service, and the toys were expensive.
- No longer available: You can’t subscribe to the toy boxes anymore.
- Limited current offerings: The website now primarily focuses on sustainability and Zahra’s new venture.
3. Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Before Monti Kids shifted its focus, many parents praised the quality of the toys and the impact they had on their children’s development.
They appreciated the convenience of the subscription service and the helpful guidance provided. However, some parents found the cost to be prohibitive.
Monti Kids Alternatives
While Monti Kids may have paused its subscription service, there are still plenty of ways to bring Montessori learning into your home. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Other Montessori Subscription Boxes
Several other companies offer Montessori-inspired subscription boxes for babies and toddlers. These boxes typically include a curated selection of toys and materials designed to support development.
Some popular options include:
- Lovevery: Known for its high-quality, stage-based play kits.
- KiwiCo: Offers a variety of subscription lines with a focus on STEM and creativity, including the Panda Crate for babies and toddlers.
- Little Learners Busy Box: Provides hands-on activities and learning materials geared towards preschool readiness.
When choosing a subscription box, consider your child’s age, interests, and your budget.
2. DIY Montessori Activities
You don’t need a subscription box to create a Montessori-inspired learning environment at home. Many everyday household items can be used for Montessori activities. Here are some ideas:
- Sensory bins: Fill a bin with rice, beans, or pasta and let your child explore with scoops, cups, and other tools.
- Practical life activities: Involve your child in daily tasks like folding laundry, setting the table, and preparing snacks.
- Art and crafts: Provide open-ended materials like crayons, paint, and playdough to encourage creativity.
- Nature exploration: Spend time outdoors observing plants, animals, and the changing seasons.
There are many resources available online and in books to help you create DIY Montessori activities.
The Future of Monti Kids
The future of Monti Kids remains uncertain. While the company has paused its toy subscription service, it continues to offer online resources and information about Montessori education.
Zahra Kassam’s new venture, The Mushroom Farm, suggests a shift towards sustainability and community-based initiatives.
It’s possible that Monti Kids may re-emerge with a new focus or offerings in the future. However, for now, parents interested in Montessori learning can explore the alternatives mentioned above.
FAQs
Is Monti Kids still in business?
Yes, but they no longer offer their Montessori toy subscription boxes. They have shifted their focus to sustainability and educational resources.
Where can I buy Monti Kids toys now?
Unfortunately, Monti Kids toys are no longer available for purchase directly from the company. You might be able to find some through online resale marketplaces.
What is the Montessori method?
The Montessori method is an educational approach that emphasizes self-directed learning, hands-on activities, and a prepared environment. It encourages children to explore their interests and develop at their own pace.
What are some alternatives to Monti Kids?
There are several other Montessori subscription boxes available, such as Lovevery and KiwiCo. You can also create your own Montessori activities at home using everyday objects.
What is The Mushroom Farm?
The Mushroom Farm is a sustainability project founded by Zahra Kassam, the founder of Monti Kids. It aims to develop a sustainable food system by focusing on regenerative agriculture and permaculture.
The Bottom Line
Monti Kids was a successful company that provided high-quality Montessori toys and resources for young children. While their shift away from toy subscriptions may disappoint some parents, it reflects a broader trend towards sustainability and conscious consumerism.
The story of Monti Kids highlights the evolving nature of business and the importance of adapting to change. Whether or not Monti Kids returns to the toy market, their journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and parents alike.
If you’re interested in Montessori education, there are still many options available to support your child’s development. Explore the alternatives mentioned in this article and find what works best for your family.
