Plant Care: Watering

Caring for plants nurtures respect for living things and develops observation skills. Children learn that their actions have consequences for other living beings.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Environment
• Level: Ages 3-6

Objectives

• Develop responsibility for living things
• Learn to observe plant needs
• Practice careful, measured pouring
• Build connection to nature

Materials

• Small watering can with long spout
• Classroom plants in pots
• Spray bottle for misting
• Small cloth for wiping leaves

Instructions

1. Carry watering can carefully. 2. Observe soil—touch to check moisture. 3. If dry, position spout at base of plant. 4. Pour slowly, watching soil absorb water. 5. Stop when soil is moist but not flooded. 6. Wipe any spills on leaves or surface. 7. Return watering can.

Educator tip

Teach children to feel the soil before watering—this develops observation skills and prevents overwatering.

Assessment

Child correctly assesses plant needs, waters appropriately, and handles plants with care.

More from Practical Life

• Sweeping
• Flower Arranging
• Spreading: Butter on Bread
• Cutting Banana
• Juicing Oranges
• Walking on the Line
• Silence Game
• Greeting Others