Maria Montessori believed that from birth to age 6 children experience different periods in which they respond better to certain stimuli. From birth to age 3, a child’s absorbent mind soaks up the most through sensorial experiences. The child uses her 5 senses to absorb information about the world around her. Discovery boxes fulfill the child’s desire to interact with common household items. As soon as a child is able to sit supported, they can be introduced to discovery boxes. All you need is some sort of tray and 3-4 items. Three to four items are ideal because a child could find it hard to focus if the box is too cluttered. You can rotate the items out every week and even have a theme with each tray. One week can be items found in the kitchen, your purse, or in the living room. Just make sure to include items of different materials and colors to excite your child’s curiousity.
Here are a couple examples:
Vivian loves playing with these and they keep her attention for quite a while. Montessori believes the parent should act as an observer and not interrupt a child at work. This fosters the child’s ability to concentrate and move at her own pace. That’s why Vivian’s not paying attention in some of our pictures – I didn’t want to bother her!
We’ve been implementing this activity since she was 5 months old. Those wicker trays are so wonderful. They were included in a gift basket from Mom K and I already have ideas about how we will use them when Vivian’s old enough for practical life activities. Thank you!
Love,
Michelle, Vivian, and Curtiss
