I've been doing quite a bit of reading lately about the Montessori method of learning and have been struck by how much a two year-old could be doing if only we'd give him an opportunity to learn. Today I set up a lesson for Ben in cutting (Sam wasn't too interested in participating today). I'm starting to have them help prepare their own snacks and meals, slowly teaching each step as they're able to grasp the concept.I had to carefully set up the cutting board in such a way that I knew he would be able to get the dull butter knife through the apple peel (lay apple on its side) and lay everything out from left to right in a way that would make sense to him. I was surprised at how much concentration he applied to the task and how much he enjoyed being able
to do something he has seen me do so often.
This is just the start. I have turned a corner in the way I think about these young ones and how much they can achieve if only given an opportunity. I plan on spending the time teaching them how to achieve practical life skills instead of simply doing everything myself - even though that is exceedingly easier than showing them over and over and waiting for them to finish their task. The goal should be more about helping them to be independent and less about getting the job done.
Easier said than done, I think. You'll know how it's going by the blog posts. If there are blog posts then it's obviously working! :-)
