1. Transferring peas with a spoon, 2. Transferring beans with fish bone tweezers, 3. Transferring beans with jugs, 4. Transferring water with a sponge, 5. Transferring water with a dropper, 6. Transferring water with a baster.
Education is a natural process carried out by the human individual, and is acquired not by listening to words, but by experiences in the environment. - Maria Montessori
Pitchers, spoons, tongs, tweezers, chop sticks, sponges, basters, droppers, water, beans, peas - all easy to find materials.
I love transferring activities because the level of engagement is high. Otis may only do the activity or one full transfer once, but during that time he is totally engaged. This level of concentration brings peace, some serenity to this boisterous toddler, a moment of calm. He is using his hands, his arms, his strength and coordination to have control over his environment, to demonstrate his will.
The first essential for the child’s development is concentration. The child who concentrates is immensely happy. - Maria Montessori
Carrying the tray to the table provides an opportunity for the child to use balance and strength of the larger muscles. Cleaning up inevitable spills provides an opportunity to mop, sweep or sponge - care for the environment. This isn't play, it is is work, it is work which contributes to his development, to the formation of his soul. Not only building physical strength but strength of mind also.
The child can develop fully by means of experience in his environment. We call such experiences ‘work’. - Maria Montessori