Real practical life

Yes, it is that time of the year again...snow is now upon us, sigh what else to say?

I tend more and more to offer real life experiences to my children, rather then activities that are not linked to an experience. Tasks with a purpose,  something tangible.  I have seen over and over again how these tasks usually engage them a lot more then trays, even the most carefully built, that are not in a context.

As I was discussing with Kylie in the comment section of this post, I am starting to see this as a big advantage over a Montessori facility (and this new way of seeing things is pretty recent, I have to say), and that pushes me more towards not replicating a Montessori school at home in any ways.

Anyhow, back to snow and winter, and cold...this all means preparation for warmth, whether it is in our soul, or our home...

So X kept busy all day last weekend manoeuvring this woodcutter tool (sorry I am not sure of the exact name of this in english, bucheuse en français).  As you can see, he was VERY focus, both because fascinated, but also knew the dangers implicated.
Then he proceeded with his dad and grand dad to stock this newly cut wood in the wood chamber, piling properly all of the logs.

And guess who was watching really close by??

don't worry, the saw was not on, and I was really close by to make sure nothing happened.
He inspected every part of the saw, and then went on his merry way to keep on observing the work that was being done.  Trust me, he took in a lot more then we originally thought! (he has been making chain saw noises for the last 2 days, and also piling everything he finds in the house!)
They learn so much more then what we think or give them credit for.  Patience and trust is just what they need.