Montessori flower arranging: flower study part 4

Check out part 1, part 2, and part 3 of our Montessori-inspired flower study!

We are frugal flower pickers around here, so when I introduced this flower arranging lesson to Elise, I kind of expected her to go wild with the scissors in the garden.  Instead, she sniped just a few of her favorite herbs - parsley and mint - for an edible bouquet.  When I suggested she pick one of the "showier" flowers, she halfheartedly agreed, insisting that we leave the rest for the bees!

If you feel like the bees in your garden are adequately supplied with nectar and pollen, and you have a flower or two to spare, try this flower arranging lesson!  You'll build control and coordination of movement, as-well-as decision making skills.  Plus, nothing brings the beauty of nature indoors like a bouquet of cheerful, fresh flowers!

You'll need:

• a basket for gathering flowers
• scissors
• a selection of small vases
• a pitcher with water
• a funnel
• newspaper or other scrap paper for collecting leaf and stem trimmings
• a drying cloth
• coasters or doilies to place under the finished bouquets

First, bring your basket and scissors to the garden and select a variety of blooms (or herbs!) to pick.

Elise filled her basket with oregano and chive blossoms, parsley, echinacea, and gaillardia.  

Once you're back inside with the flowers, choose a vase to fill with fresh water.  If the vase has a narrow opening, use the funnel.

Spilled some water?  No big deal!  Use your drying cloth to wipe it up!

Select a bloom or two to arrange in the vase.  Trim the stems, and remove any leaves that are in the water.  These can go in the compost or trash at the end of the lesson.

Keep in mind the aesthetics of the bouquet, and don't overcrowd your vase with too many flowers!  Set the finished bouquets in a safe spot while you clean up your supplies.

Finally, place the bouquets on coasters or doilies around the house.  Enjoy!