Learning to pour and transfer are everyday life skills that require great concentration and coordination for a small child. These Montessori inspired activities are a great way for your child to practice, and develop skills that will help him/her with eating or serving food.
Note: Always work from left to right, as this prepares your child for reading.
Supplies to practice pouring
- Tray
- A pitcher
- A cup
- Dried beans (start with large dried beans like chickpeas and replace with finer substances as your child improves his skills: rice, lentils, then water)
Put the pitcher on the right side of the tray, with the spout facing the cup and the handles facing out. Fill the pitcher a third full with beans.
Show your child how to pour, without using words, and using slow movements. If you take great care when showing your child will be encouraged to do the same. Pick up the pitcher with your right hand, supporting it with your left hand. Pour the beans into the cup on the left.
Invite your child to try this activity.
Supplies to practice transferring
- Tray
- 2 shallow bowls
- Dried beans (start with large dried beans like chickpeas and replace with finer substances as your child improves his skills: rice, lentils, flour)
Set two bowls on the tray with the spoon on the right. Half fill the bowl on the left with dried beans.
Show your child how to transfer without using words, and using slow movements. Pick up the spoon and begin to transfer the beans from the left to the right bowl, until empty.
Invite your child to try this activity.
To read the Indonesian translation, click here.
