PL 1.05Spooning
The child transfers dry objects from one bowl to another with a spoon.
Presentation
- 1
Invite the child and carry the tray to the table, with the full bowl on the left.
- 2
Hold the spoon in your dominant hand the way you hold it to eat.
- 3
Dip the spoon into the full bowl and lift a spoonful slowly.
- 4
Move the spoon over the empty bowl. Turn your wrist slowly so the beans fall in. Pause to show the tipping motion; this is the point of interest.
- 5
Continue until the left bowl is empty. Tip the bowl slightly to collect the last beans.
- 6
If a bean falls on the tray, pick it up with your fingers and put it in the bowl.
- 7
Switch the bowls so the full one is on the left again.
- 8
Invite the child to spoon them back, then return the tray to the shelf.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Use smaller dry material (lentils, rice) with a smaller spoon
- Spoon into three or more small containers
- Use a slotted spoon to lift objects out of water
- Use a ladle to transfer water between bowls
Control of error
Spilled beans on the tray or table show the child the spoon was tipped too early or moved too fast.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Transfers all the material without spills
- Holds the spoon with a steady grip, not a fist
- Cleans up any spilled pieces without being reminded
Guide note
Choose objects too large to be a choking hazard for the youngest children in the room.