Pouring with a Funnel

Using a funnel teaches children that tools extend our capabilities. This problem-solving approach prepares children for scientific thinking.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Preliminary Exercises
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Develop precision in pouring
• Understand the function of tools
• Build problem-solving skills
• Prepare for science activities

Materials

• Two bottles with narrow openings
• Funnel
• Colored water
• Tray
• Sponge for cleanup

Instructions

1. Show bottles and narrow openings. 2. Try pouring without funnel—observe difficulty. 3. Introduce funnel. 4. Place funnel in bottle opening. 5. Pour water slowly through funnel. 6. Remove funnel and observe result. 7. Pour back using funnel. 8. Clean up.

Educator tip

Let children discover the problem before introducing the funnel. This builds authentic problem-solving.

Assessment

Child uses funnel purposefully and pours without significant spillage.

More from Practical Life

• Greeting a Visitor to the Classroom
• Sewing on a Button
• Caring for Books
• Walking with Purpose: Carrying Fragile Objects
• Opening and Closing Containers
• Sweeping with a Dustpan
• Washing Hands with Soap
• Setting the Table for a Meal