Dry Pouring 

This simple Montessori Practical Life activity prepares the child to pour without spilling, but has many other benefits. In addition to improving fine motor skills and helping to build concentration, coordination and independence, this pre-writing activity also teaches the child about conservation. In child development terms, this refers to the understanding that the amount of something stays the same despite a change in appearance. This activity is also a precursor to liquid pouring. 

It is super simple to set up. You will need two pitchers of similar dimensions (one containing a grain of your choice) and a tray to catch any fallout. I used red lentils. Be sure to set your child up for success with child-size pitchers. You can find two of our favorite pitchers here.

Present the activity from left to right (pitcher on the left contains the lentils) and model holding the handle, slowly aligning the pouring spout, pouring and gently placing the pitcher back on the tray. You can also intentionally spill some to model picking up the grains. This small table top brush is perfect for little hands.

Once the pouring process is done, rotate the tray to ensure the full pitcher is always on the left side.

Did you know that many Practical Life activities are building pre-literacy skills? That is why pouring, transferring, scooping, etc. are done from left to right, because it is the direction that we read and write in most languages across the world. 

Cleaning up is part of the learning process, so make sure to encourage your child to tidy up after they finish. Model how to do it until your child feels confident enough to initiate the tidying up process independently.

Bringing play to life:

• One of the best places to practice dry pouring? In the kitchen, of course! There is so much to pour, especially if decanting is something you love doing. What a wonderful opportunity to get your little one to help you get organized!