Practical life activities

The purpose and aim of Practical Life is to help the child gain control in the coordination of his movement, and help the child to gain independence and adapt to his society. It is therefore important to “Teach teaching, not correcting” (Montessori) in order to allow the child to be a fully functionional member in his own society. Practical Life Exercises also aid the growth and development of the child’s intellect and concentration and will in turn also help the child develop an orderly way of thinking.
http://www.infomontessori.com/practical-life/introduction.htm

Practical life activities also aim on helping the children develop the fine motor skills that are needed in every day things such as feeding oneself, using a pencil correctly, putting on his or her own shoes, toileting, and any other thing you can think of.

Language for Infants and Toddlers

Children are always absorbing the language around us whether we know it or not. Thats why it is so important to always read to children and have realistic books and pictures all around. Please please please don't baby talk to young children, it truly undermines their intelligence! Below are some examples of books to have around for infants and toddlers. Remember, the more realistic the pictures are, the better! Also you can purchase or print out language card pictures and hang them around your house to spark conversation with your little ones. Even if they can't talk yet, they love to hear you! So explain what's happening in the picture. Don't forget to laminate them because they might end up as baby food :)

Our Spring Pictures

Our new activity on our arts and crafts shelf. The girls must have spent almost an hour here making their spring pictures! I also asked them to tell me a story using their pictures which we wrote down for them for safe keeping.
You can find these foam stickers in AC Moore, don't forget to use the 40% off coupons!!

This activity can also be turned into a color sorting activity, and don't forget the fine motor skills used to peel the backs of the stickers off. Language is another important factor when learning the names of the different insects that are part of the activity...AND last but not least, stick their cute pictures in an envelope, give it to the mail man/lady and send to loved ones! Great way to incorporate some culture and explain how our postal system works.