As Montessori teachers/homeschoolers, we often put a lot of effort into work trays, only to find that the kids just don’t seem interested. Here are some considerations to make current work more enticing or create completely new shelf work:

Remember that every part of the tray matters

If the containers on the work tray aren’t interesting, neither is the actual work! Seems silly, but it can be true. Kids love beauty just as much as we do! Make sure you’re using interesting containers on your work trays — glass, something with a lid, wooden bowls, etc. Sometimes it’s as simple as switching out the color of the tray, the liner, or the tool that’s being used — or even adding a tool like tweezers for a point of interest. Once you’ve created a gorgeous work tray, pick it up and test it out. If it’s not easy to carry, it won’t be chosen.

Engage the senses

Children are sensory learners, so the more senses you can engage with your work tray, the more likely the kids will choose it! Make sure you’re combining different textures on one tray. Don’t forget about the element of sound! This is key for making practical life transfer works more interesting. Work trays that involve water are always a hit.

Connect it to your child’s interests

This is easiest if you’re homeschooling and only have one or two children’s interests to consider, but you can definitely try it in a classroom setting as well! If you have a child who’s really into animals, put down some animal print liner on the tray, or use chopsticks that have animal shapes on them. Really lean in to your child’s interests when designing the elements of your work tray.

Let your kids help!

If you are creating work trays for children ages 4+, allowing them to help or asking for their input can go a long way in building interest in the work itself. This can be even just little things. For example, you choose the work, and they choose the tray it goes on or what small bowl to add to it, etc.

Need more help figuring out how to do Montessori homeschool preschool and actually keep your kids engaged? Check out my e-courses!