8.3 – Observation Tasks

1. Observe the child engaged in the bead-threading activity: what are some of the skills she shows in the process?

2. What other examples of fine-motor-skill development did you observe in the video?

3. Note the toileting that is happening with the young boy and the adult. How much of the entire activity is performed by the boy?  What role does the adult play in the process?

4. Note the attempted collaboration to move the small table.  Why would the adult seek the help of one of the toddlers in this task?   Write a few sentences as your summary of what happened from the start of this activity to the finish – when they had settled the table in its new location.

5. Observe the young girl doing the gluing activity. Comment on the different grasps she uses on the glue applicator to apply the glue to the paper she is trying to stick onto the main sheet.  Give your thoughts on this activity.

6. Observe the egg peeling /slicing activity:  Comment on what skills she has developed and how you feel she did with this activity.

7. Choose 3 examples of multi-step activities (These are activities that are more complex) carried out by children in the course of this video.  

8. Comment on the young girl going in to find newly laid eggs.  Describe what you see and how you think this activity can help development.  

9. Consider the table setting towards the end of the video.  Comment on differences between children in following the cultural norms.

10. Comment on at least 2 examples of child independence you noticed in the course of the video that impressed you.

Task 2 – A Map of a Montessori Toddler’s Environment

Considering the information in this session, and the accompanying outline in your manual, please attempt to draw a detailed map of the Toddler’s area. This is not about being perfect but giving you the opportunity to take the information you have received and apply it.

Everyone’s area will be different; over time, you will likely change how you interpret this information.

For now, have a go!

Upload your map below. Please don’t forget to label it.