Thursday, May 5, 2011

yes i give my child knives

Some would argue about the safety of giving an almost three year old a knife.  Some might be gasping as they scroll through these pictures.  Right.  I hear your concern, but what about teaching our children practical skills that help them become independent human beings?  Isn't that our main goal as parents?  Besides, look how engaged Abby is in this activity.  I couldn't distract her if I tried.  I really appreciated many parts of this book and many parts of the Montessori philosophy, especially those concerning what I call adaptive skills, what Montessori calls practical life skills.  When we give our children the "tools" (knives  in my case - haha) to become independent - to do things ALL BY MYSELF - they are happier, we are happier, and days run smoother.  

Cutting the strawberry tops off



 Placing tops in a bowl to throw in the trash


Pouring herself a drink of water from her own special pitcher.  Fancy.


And at the end of the day she wants to sit in her baby sister's bebepod. So much for independence!

 "That's better," says the one learning to sit up.

7 comments:

  1. I agree whole-heartedly with allowing our children to engage with and explore the world in which they live. Practical skills can't be taught... they need to be explored through hands-on practice and repetition.

    Bravo to you!

    Jennifer (The OTHER mom who gives her child a knife).

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  2. welcome to my childhood: http://www.ted.com/talks/gever_tulley_on_5_dangerous_things_for_kids.html (minus the car driving)

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  3. I am in love... even with the driving! It's all about the right time and place.

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  4. I love how fearless (but so smart) you are in your parenting!

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  5. YES! I'm a Montessori Teacher, Mommy and Blogger. My kids do almost all cooking with us!

    Also, I'm loving your sensory bin planters. Itsa beautiful extension on flower arranging!

    I'm your newest follower :)

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  6. Thanks for stopping by and following! Ooh - I am creeping all over your blog and learning so much from you already.

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