Children always love to mimic their parents, especially when it comes to chores. They are motivated by their sense of exploration, independence, and the fun of learning new skills. For three year old children, there is something very special about chores that people consider regular, like washing dishes, washing clothes, slicing carrots, etc. These activities are very exciting and stimulating for the children.
Many exercises of the practical life area in our classroom include the use of water and the children are spontaneously drawn to play with it. After introducing the beautiful work of washing a baby, washing little animals, and washing dishes, we introduced washing a table this week. The activity seems very simple, but there is much more to this practical life lesson that interests the children. Beginning with carrying the water in a pitcher and pouring it in a basin, this activity enhances the children’s coordination to follow a sequence of steps. When the children become engaged in scrubbing the table in a circular motion, they increase their span of concentration. In the process, they indirectly memorize the sequence of steps to wash a table. Finally, they develop a nice work habit by putting away the lesson where it belongs.
We encourage children to do fun tasks and activities at home with their parents or their older siblings like cooking, baking, or washing dishes. Children love to see and feel their contribution to the whole family.
Enjoy your spring break.
Kaoutar and Sara
