PL 6.05Grinding with a Mortar and Pestle

1. 1

   Invite the child. Wash hands and put on aprons.

2. 2

   Set the mortar on the damp cloth so it does not slide.

3. 3

   Spoon one teaspoon of dried basil into the mortar.

4. 4

   Hold the mortar with your non-dominant hand. Hold the pestle in your fist, rounded end down.

5. 5

   Press the pestle down and turn it in small circles against the bottom. Listening to the leaves crunch is the point of interest.

6. 6

   Grind until the pieces are small. Smell it together and name it.

7. 7

   Tip the ground herb into the small jar. Wipe out the mortar with a dry cloth.

8. 8

   Invite the child to grind the next spoonful.

What catches the child’s eye

• The crunch of dry leaves under the pestle
• The smell growing stronger as the herb breaks up

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Grind fennel seeds, which are harder
2. Add the ground herb to a dip or soft cheese for snack
3. Grind three herbs and match each smell to its labeled jar