Pouring water

“As a matter of fact, in these movements the little one is seeking the very exercise which will organise and co-ordinate the movements useful to man.” — Maria Montessori in Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook

The child pours blue water from a small jug to the other

Aim

The child practices pouring skills

Objectives

Develop:

• eye-hand co-ordination
• fine motor control
• concentration
• independence
• strength in the dominant hand

Age

2½+

Materials

• Two small jugs of the same kind
• Plain tray
• Small sponge

Control of error

Water spillage on the tray

Language

Jug, water, sponge, pouring

Presentation

Show the child how to hold the jug handle.

Place two fingers of the other hand under the rim and slowly pour the water into the empty jug. The two jugs should not touch. Pour the water back into the original other jug, then again pour it into the jug on the right.

“Once a direction is given to them, the child’s movements are made towards a definite end, so that he himself grows quiet and contended, and become an active worker, a being calm and full of joy.” Maria Montessori in Dr. Montessori Own Handbook

Show the child how to dab the lip of the jug with the sponge. Mop up any spillage and squeeze the water back into the jug.

Further challenges

Offer the child some variations:

• two, three or more containers
• glass cups marked with a line for the water height
• a few drops of food coloring in the water to better see the water level

Once the child has mastered the pouring skills, offer him more fine items which require more care, for example: mini china jugs or glass cups.

Porcelain china tea set

Ideas

You may let the child practice first with dry materials before pouring water. A jug with a well-designed spout helps the child better control the water flow.

Pouring can be explored through simple opportunities such as playing in the water or sand trays and even through role-play.

Let the child practice pouring their own drinks and watering flowers and plants.