Watering Plants

Watering plants connects children to the natural world while developing responsibility and observation skills. They learn that living things have needs.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Environment
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Learn to care for living things
• Develop observation skills
• Practice controlled pouring
• Build responsibility

Materials

• Small watering can
• Classroom plants
• Plant care chart
• Spray bottle (for misting)

Instructions

1. Check soil moisture (finger test). 2. Fill watering can appropriately. 3. Pour slowly at base of plant. 4. Stop when soil is moist but not soaked. 5. Empty saucer if needed. 6. Record on care chart.

Educator tip

Teach children to observe the plant—drooping leaves mean thirst, yellow leaves may mean overwatering.

Assessment

Child assesses plant needs, waters appropriately, and maintains care chart.

More from Practical Life

• Dressing Frame: Snaps
• Setting the Table
• Braiding
• Twisting and Opening Containers
• Folding Cloths
• Peeling Vegetables
• Dressing Frame: Bow Tying
• Washing Dishes