setting the table: a Montesorri approach

Ladybug wants to be very helpful in the kitchen these days and usually I try to let her help "cook" (as far away from the heat as possible), set the table and empty the silverware.

I've been looking for a used, cheap placemat to try out a Montessori idea I came across several months ago. I didn't want to use one I liked, so I waited and finally found one at a local thrift store.

It's not the prettiest craft in the world, but I was more concerned with function over beauty this time around. I used a black permanent marker and traced the utensils and a small plate for the middle. A little cup for a circle and she caught right on!

A little practice and she'll be setting it better than I do most days. :-)