I don’t know if this is officially a Montessori activity or not, but it seems like it could be. We cleaned several non-shiny pennies using old toothbrushes dipped in a mixture of vinegar and salt. This exercise was great for focus and concentration for both my girls. The 20 month old focused on being careful and not spilling, while the 3 1/2 year old was concentrating on getting the coins as shiny as possible and the science of watching the tarnish dissolve. It kept the older one focused for over a half hour. It also helped the younger one especially with her hand eye coordination.
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You are a WEALTH of activity information!!!!!!
I love it!! This would be great for Matty!
That is a great idea. I know my daughter would love that. We have lots of old pennies so I am going to give it a try!
Ooooo….I *really* like this! What a great idea! My 2 and 4 yr old would get a kick outta this! Maybe as an outside in-the-driveway activity too!
Hi Jessica –
Loved the pictures – I love to see kids concentrating. It doesn’t have to be “official” Montessori – you definitely created a Montessori approach that brought out the best in your little ones.
Thanks for sharing!
Barbara
Makes me wish I hadn’t just thrown away our old toothbrushes!
What a neat idea. I think even my 6th grade girls would like that.