Handmade

The human hand, so delicate and so complicated, not only allows the mind to reveal itself but enables the whole being to enter into special relationships with its environment.  We might even say that man "takes possession of his environment with his hands." Maria Montessori

In the Practical Life area of the Montessori environment, children choose meaningful activities that imitate adult work while developing coordination, concentration, independence, order, and self discipline.

                 Pouring, polishing, washing, and sorting work is exciting and interesting. It takes focus!

The work is active, hands-on, and often involves water.











Using tools like tongs, scissors, tweezers, droppers, pipettes, spoons, and scoops requires precision and concentration.

The work is purposeful, sequential, and provides fine and gross motor practice. It is also useful.  How else will the polishing clothes be clean, ironed and folded?

When completed, Practical Life Exercises lead to a sense of competence and confidence.

"Look, I did it all by myself!"