We are finally experiencing spring and warm weather here. Which means we are going to be outside as much as possible for the foreseeable future. Being outside doesn't just mean that the kids are off riding bikes or swinging on the playground, but it opens up a world of practical life work opportunities. Practical life activities are such a huge and important part about Montessori living, especially for young children, and this work does not need to be limited to the doors of your home or classroom.
The possibilities for practical life work outside are practically endless! Nearly anything that can be done inside could be taken outside for a child to work on. It's actually kind of nice to take practical life outdoors because they you don't have to feel so concerned about the mess that comes along with young children and these types of activities. So, here are some ideas for practical life work outdoors for you!
Care of the Environment
Sweeping
Raking
Weeding
Scrubbing a deck/outdoor surfaces
Cleaning bikes or other outdoor toys
Shoveling snow
Painting a fence/house/other structure
Window washing
Picking up garbage from ground
Hauling garbage to bins or curbside
Care of Others and Self
Helping to put on coats/boots/swim gear/outdoor gear
Pushing a younger child in stroller or swing
Tending to small animals - feeding the birds, keeping chickens or rabbits, caring for a family pet
Taking a dog {or other animal} for a walk
Outdoor laundry - scrubbing and hanging clothes
Plant Care/Gardening
Hauling or pouring dirt/rock/other natural materials
Planting seedlings
Caring for plants in the garden
Tilling up dirt
Watering plants
Harvesting fruits and vegetables
Peeling or cleaning vegetables and fruits .
Cutting flowers
Arranging flowers
Pruning plants
Other Outdoor Work
Transferring work involving water - sponges, scoops, cups
Weaving or sewing of natural materials
Walking the Line on garden edges and sidewalk lines
Woodworking or building
Setting a picnic table or other outdoor picnic for a meal
Outdoor art area - painting, chalk
Composting waste
Recycling
I'm sure there are tons more that we could add to the list for children to work on outside. And, each of these activities could be adapted for a younger or an older child. For a younger child, participation might include one step in the process, where an older and more independent child might have complete control over an entire process.
What kinds of practical life activities do your children enjoy outdoors? Anything I should add to this list?
12 Months of Montessori
This post is brought to you as part of the 12 Months to Montessori series! This month's theme is practical life. Don't miss these Montessori and Montessori inspired practical life posts!
Kid Made Bird Feeder Out of Recycled Materials | Natural Beach Living
Free Montessori Curriculum ~ Practical Life Activities Checklists | The Natural Homeschool
Montessori Home: What Does Practical Life Look Like for Older Preschoolers through Elementary Kids? | Living Montessori Now
Hand Sewing Kit for Kids | Mama’s Happy Hive
Practical Life for the Outdoors | The Kavanaugh Report
Garden Practical Life Activities | Sugar, Spice & Glitter
