Presentation

  1. 1

    Invite the child. Put on an apron. Carry the tray to a table and choose one vase.

  2. 2

    Place the funnel in the vase. Pour water from the pitcher through the funnel until the vase is half full.

  3. 3

    Choose a flower. Hold it beside the vase to see how much stem to cut.

  4. 4

    Cut the stem at an angle over the trimming bowl. Remove leaves that would sit below the water line.

  5. 5

    Place the flower in the vase. Look at it from the front; seeing how it stands is the point of interest.

  6. 6

    Sponge up any drips. Carry the vase and a doily to a table or shelf and set it down.

  7. 7

    Put the trimmings in the compost. Return the tray.

  8. 8

    Invite the child to arrange a flower.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. Arrange two or three flowers in one vase
  2. Replace old water in vases around the room
  3. Arrange flowers for a snack table or a celebration

Control of error

A stem cut too short falls into the vase; too long and the vase tips; water outside the funnel is visible.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Fills the vase through the funnel without spilling
  • Cuts the stem to a length that stands in the vase
  • Places the vase on a doily and cleans up the tray

Try “pink tower”, “tummy”, “diaper”, “grace and courtesy”, or “October”.