the wavy chopper

Last week, I introduced Elise to the wavy chopper, and it has totally transformed her experience in the kitchen. Now, in addition to scrubbing, scooping, and stirring - she can CHOP!

Here are a few tips I've come up with for using a wavy chopper with a toddler:

1.  The metal part of the wavy chopper is as sharp as a knife - only touch the handle.  

2.  Keep both hands on the handle when chopping.  This keeps little fingers safe, and provides some preparation for using an actual knife.

3.  Since both hands are on the handle, it's more comfortable to chop vertically, rather than horizontally.

^^^4.  When setting up a chopping activity, include a cutting board, a dish for the peel or any other scraps, a dish for the slices of fruit or veggies, and a dish for holding the wavy chopper when not in use.  

5.  Isolate movement: after each piece is chopped, set the wavy chopper down, and transfer the slice of fruit/veggie to the dish.  

^^^6.  Finish chopping before eating.  In the Montessori classroom, the children would also clean up before eating. We're still working on this one - Elise loves to sample!  Ha, ha - I do, too!  ;)

7.  Always supervise your child when using the wavy chopper!!!  It is a real tool, and it is sharp enough to cut fruits and vegetables.  While I rarely interrupt Elise when she's working, I don't think twice about reminding her to keep both hands on the handle of the wavy chopper.

A list of beginning foods to try chopping with the wavy chopper:

• banana
• cucumber
• wedges of peeled melon
• zucchini
• hard-boiled egg
• cheese  

OK, this is sort of off-topic, but are you feeling a little curious about what Elise is wearing in the above chopping photos?!  Well, if you are, here she is in all her unique awesomeness...

^^^I love her so much!!!!!!!!^^^

Hope you're all having a great week!