How to build the box of mysteries according to the Montessori method, or the bag of mysteries, to teach children to recognize the objects of everyday life.
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Today we explain how to build the magic box (box of mysteries or bag of mysteries) inspired by the Montessori method for learning to recognize objects. Making educational games for children with your own hands, both at home and at school, is really rewarding and also allows you to save money because you can start from objects you already own without having to spend anything more.
Il Montessori method plans to use games and educational materials that stimulate the child's curiosity and dexterity. Little ones should spend time each day in an environment full of learning ideas.
Here then is that if we are parents, grandparents, educators or teachers we can experiment with the creation of some useful objects according to the suggestions of the Montessori method. We have already explained to you how to create the jar of calm to help children calm down and the box to post, which allows children to understand the permanence of objects in the world even when they are hidden from their eyes.
According to the passwords by Maria Montessori: “Education is a natural process carried out by the child. It is not acquired by listening to words but thanks to experiences conducted in a suitable environment ".
Here then is that for the child it will be easier learn to recognize objects understanding how to exploit one's sense of touch rather than listening to long, impractical explanations in words.
From this point of view the Montessori method suggests create a magic box or magic bag in which to insert objects of very different sizes, shapes and textures to stimulate the curiosity of children.
How to make the box of mysteries inspired by the Montessori method
With the mystery box you can start a real one riddle game. You can also insert objects that are a little unusual or uncommon for the child, so you can make the activity even more fun.
You will simply need:
- 1 cardboard box or 1 canvas bag
- 5 or more very different objects
- Scissors and cutter to complete the box or
- 1 tape to close the bag
build the box of mysteries we advise you to start with a cardboard box in which to drill holes large enough so that the child can easily insert his hands to reach the objects. Choosing a box with a lid makes it easier to arrange items in the right places.
Alternatively, you can replace the box with a cloth bag to be closed with a colored string. In this case the child will insert a hand into the bag in search of the objects to guess, without peeking. Better to advise to keep your eyes closed. For convenience, you can decorate the bag with a ribbon, so you can easily close it and reopen it when you want to reuse it.
Here are some examples of objects that you can put in the box or bag of mysteries: a pine cone, a teaspoon, a feather, a cotton swab, a handkerchief or a scarf, a comb or a small brush, a dice, a small wooden toy, a key, a walnut or different types of fruit.
You proceed like this: Show all the objects to the child one at a time and indicate them by their name. Then you can hide the items in the box or bag and start the game. The child will have to guess objects only by touch.
This game teaches children to recognize the objects we use in everyday life. It is especially suitable for children aged between 2 and 4 years.
Have you ever tried to build and use the mystery box or bag with your children?
Marta Albè
Source photo: How We Montessori
Read also:
Montessori method: 10 principles for educating happy children
Montessori method: how to build the jar of calm
Montessori method: how to build the box for posting
