Alex uses a knife

I read a book recently on Montessori activities for children ages 1-3. Maria Montessori thought that practical life skills, the things that children see their parents do every day, are important for children to learn. One of the areas of practical life skills is food preparation. Toddlers in Montessori settings help with things like spreading butter on toast, pouring water into little glasses, peeling a hardboiled egg, peeling veggies and learning to use a knife.  

I was cutting the goat milk mozzarella that Alex eats and he wanted to hold the knife. It was a dull butter knife, so I showed him how to use it and he concentrated and did a great job of slicing the cheese. 

I know that Alex likes to imitate us, and I like the Montessori ideas of having the child help with daily tasks and upkeep of the house. He has a little broom and he likes to help Nick sweep the back porch and driveway. He likes to help clean up a mess- like when someone (wonder who?) spills their water or he sees dog hair on the floor, he gets a towel or wants me to get the vacuum to clean it up. 

The book I read was Montessori from the Start: The Child at Home, from Birth to Age 3. I think I need to read it again, to see what else we can incorporate into our routine. I remember there was a section on toddlers dressing themselves, even little guys like Alex's age. Having things like his clothes, books, etc. kept in low cupboards so he can reach them appeals to me, I think children like to have that control over their environment.

 I just hope my dad doesn't see this photo of Alex with a knife, I can hear him gasping in concern already! 

Comments

[Thriftathome.blogspot.com]

I totally agree with you - and Evie used an actual sharp knife the other day to cut cucumbers for me. I haven't let Ben use a knife yet (you are so brave!), but he has used the grater.
I saw your post on the green beans too - my kids try to help me top and tail them too.

I'm always surprised again at how few toys children want when there is real adult work to participate in!

[Dana Lehman]

He is a natural southpaw. Oh, Pappa Bear!