Here is another one of the home-Montessori exercise we've been working on. Max enjoys creating his own string of beads and showing them off, and I enjoy watching him concentrate intently on getting the lace into each hole. You can start by practicing stringing the beads, and later advance to sequence modeling, wherein you create a sequence of beads and ask the child to create the same sequence on his own string.
This is a simple activity to make yourself (although it does take a bit of patience to paint the beads). There are many inexpensive sets, such as this one, that you can buy, but I enjoy choosing my own colors and letting Max watch the creation process, which I think encourages his own interest in and understanding about creating things. Make sure to choose beads that are 1" in diameter or larger. This makes it easier for your little one to handle them and easier for you to clean them up if the tray tips over!
MONTESSORI TUTORIAL: LACING BEADS
The aim of lacing beads is to build your child's concentration, manual dexterity and sequencing skills by teaching them to lace beads onto a string. You can buy a set like this or make your own.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
1) 25 or so 1" or larger wooden beads (like these)
2) A small tray (like this)
3) 2 or more round shoe or boot laces around 24" L
4) Non-toxic paints such as Americana craft paints in 5 colors
5) Modge Podge
HOW TO MAKE IT
STEP 1: Paint an assortment of wooden beads in solid colors.
STEP 2: Wait until beads are dry to the touch, before finishing each with a coat of Modge Podge.
STEP 3: Allow to dry overnight or longer before placing them in a tray or basket and introducing them to your little one using the Montessori Lesson Presentation method.
Remember to keep this activity out of reach when you are not watching your little one closely! The strings and beads can be a choking or strangulation hazard for younger children.
[Photos and tutorial by bonbon mini]
