Montessori Fall Activity

In both my home and my classroom I like to switch things up for the Fall. Whether that be decorations, foods or things we do, it's always fun to have something new around. 

I love having little pumpkins and multi colored corn to decorate with.  I have put together this fun corn picking activity for my classroom the past couple of years and it's always a huge hit! I also would be lying if I said that my older kids and myself didn't also enjoy it.  For adults, this can be a great stress reliever and is oddly satisfying as you watch the corn kernels dwindle down. 

This is a Montessori job that would be housed on the Practical Life Shelf.  The target of this particular activity would be concentration and fine motor skills. Additionally, all Montessori jobs promote cleanliness as the job isn't complete until it's neatly returned to the shelf in it's original condition.  

Here's what you need :  

Multi color corn-You can find some here on Amazon

Plastic Tray-This one would work well

Tweezers-Metal ones like this work well

2 small bowls-To store the tweezers and corn on the tray

Larger container (optional)- for collecting the overflow of corn kernels

(The links above will take you to the items on Amazon. If you wish to purchase one using this link, this blog may receive a portion of the profits.)

In Montessori education everything is presented in a beautiful and inviting manner. It's purpose is to draw the children to the materials and encourage them to explore for themselves.  

I like to keep the trays simple and include only the necessary materials for the job.  However it is important that all materials needed are included to encourage independence for the children.  I've used this job for several years now and the children love it! My elementary students at school enjoy it as well as my own children who are now older.  I must admit, it is a great stress reliever for me too!

Here's what my tray looks like: 

 

It's so fun to use the tweezers and remove individual kernels of corn.  This helps with concentration, fine motor skills and is a great "brain break" for kids (and adults too!). 

The little blue bowl is for collecting the kernels that were removed during the use of this job.  In my classroom, I limit it to 5 minutes to allow everyone the opportunity to complete this.  One ear of corn usually lasts for 4-5 turns.  

Once the blue bowl is full, I have my students pour it into a larger container and we collect the kernels for a later project.  I was considering making stress balls out of them or using them for an upcoming art project.  

Don't you just love the colors of all the different kernels?  This is definitely a job that utilizes your senses.  I mentioned above how I plan to use these kernels once this job is retired.  

Here are some other ideas:  

Sensory table

Pouring from one container to another

Sorting by color/size

Bean Bags

Weighted lap pillow

Well, there you have it! I hope this simple, yet fun job inspired you to mix it up for Fall.  

What would you use the leftover kernels for?  What is your favorite fall activity for kids or yourself?  Leave me a note in the comments.

Take care,

McKenzie