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November 11, 2015

Introduction to Spooning for Montessori Toddlers

One of the most beloved practical life experiences for young toddlers is transferring with a spoon. There is just something about this simple motion that is so satisfying to these little people. For adults, using a spoon is so common of a task we may not even realize how complicated it can be. A specific set of motions must be used to accomplish our task, and there is very little room for error. So, an introduction to spooning for Montessori toddlers can be very helpful. 

Montessori toddlers love practical activities and spooning is no exception. Introducing a practical tray for toddlers to work on this skill is a fun Montessori activity for toddlers.

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Nora's true introduction to spooning, was at 6-months when she first started to eat solids. Following a a Montessori-method of weaning, she was given a spoon and fork with every meal. But, this is still a skill that she is refining. So, I still wanted to create a work for her to use away from meal times. However, I should make it clear, that this type of practical introduction should be the main way that toddler are doing practical skills. These little trays come second, and should be used sparingly. 

Montessori toddlers love practical activities and spooning is no exception. Introducing a practical tray for toddlers to work on this skill is a fun Montessori activity for toddlers.

To make this work, I simply used a small amount of wild rice in a glass cup. I included a small glass appetizer spoon. A tiny wooden tray with higher sides. The tray is small and light enough for Nora to carry to a mat or table.


I choose to use food on this tray to make it a true extension of her meal times. I also only included a small amount of rice -- no more than you are willing to clean up! Also, Nora is still very oral, so with the rice, I don't have to worry as much if she puts it in her mouth. 

If you want to introduce spooning to a toddler, I suggest to keep it very simple and practical at first. Remember it is about the process not the product. After a quick presentation, I suggest letting your toddler explore the tray. Try to observe instead of reacting, especially if the toddler doesn't do it the same way you would.


If a spill is made -- and a spill will happen! -- I encourage Nora to pick up the rice. But, only AFTER she is done spooning. I try not to interrupt her even when mistakes are made. Concentration and respect is key. This also means you should try to avoid praise or help as your toddler works. 

I know this can be hard. But, trust me. Repeat over and over -- process over product. Then, sit back and watch the joy of accomplishment! 


Do your children enjoy spooning? What other practical life activities have you encouraged with your toddler?

If you like this post, check out: Introduction to Pouring; Mornings at the Weaning Table




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Comments

Julie
Julie said…
I love your posts! How old was she here?
Unknown
Unknown said…
Hi Nicole,

Can i ask you, what happen i gave my baby a bowl to spoon, something like pasta she was ended up turning the bowl and let the pasta spill and then she will chew the bowl.

It's challenging to get my baby to sit well and do Montessori activities at home.
Unknown
Unknown said…
Lovely, simple activity! And just to chime into to Ricca's question above - I think your point, Nicole, here, pretty much sums it up: "After a quick presentation, I suggest letting your toddler explore the tray. Try to observe instead of reacting, especially if the toddler doesn't do it the same way you would." - When we present these activities to young children, we can't expect them to react as if they were little adults - and we must remember that exploration can take many forms! You might give words for what your daughter is doing, immersing her deep in some nice language stimulation, and perhaps you might take your own tray and show her what YOU would do with the spoon! Even if she is not imitating you in that moment, she's watching, taking it all in, and learning (both from you, and also from what SHE'S doing!)

Thanks for a lovely post, as always!
Ayelet from Strength In Words