Transforming routine care activities into meaningful interactions
Core Idea: Daily caregiving activities with toddlers (dressing, meals, diapering, bathing) are valuable opportunities for connection rather than tasks to rush through efficiently.
Key Elements
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Key principles
- Reframing perspective: seeing care routines as connection opportunities rather than chores
- Using care moments to build relationship rather than just meeting physical needs
- Recognizing that these routine activities make up a significant portion of daily interaction
- Slowing down to match the child's pace and perception
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Implementation steps
- Make eye contact and smile during care activities
- Talk about what is happening in simple, clear language
- Create space for the child to respond and communicate (even pre-verbally)
- Take turns in conversation during these moments
- Demonstrate respectful touch and physical boundaries
- Include appropriate physical affection like hugs
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Common pitfalls
- Rushing through care activities to "get them done"
- Missing connection opportunities while physically present but mentally elsewhere
- Treating the child as a passive recipient rather than an active participant
- Focusing solely on the task instead of the relationship
Additional Connections
- Broader Context: Respect for the Child (foundation for Montessori approach to care)
- Applications: Going Slowly with Toddlers (pace affects quality of interaction)
- See Also: Parent as Guide Mindset (care as guidance rather than management)
References
- Davies, S. (2019). The Montessori Toddler.
- Montessori, M. (1966). The Secret of Childhood, Fides Publishers.
#connection #care #montessori #toddlers
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