Dear Parents,
Did you know that confidence is built through nose blowing? That’s right! In a Montessori classroom, even the simplest daily tasks are viewed as meaningful opportunities for children to build independence and confidence. One such task—often overlooked by adults, but deeply empowering for children—is learning how to wipe their nose.
This Practical Life activity is introduced in our young toddler environment, and reinforced in the older classrooms. It is designed not only to support hygiene, but also to encourage autonomy, intentional movement, and body care.
We have a nose wiping station set up in the room with a wall mirror and a tray of 5 folded tissues. When we notice a runny nose, we model and provide guidance in this way:
Invite the child to come to the mirror.
Help them notice something on their nose. We say “mucus.”
Show the tissues and select one, unfolding it slowly and deliberately.
Invite your child to select and open a tissue.
Face the mirror and demonstrate– again, emphasizing deliberate movements.
”Pinch and pull” is one phrase that you can use.
Allow the child to try. Assist as needed.
Follow up with handwashing to reinforce cleanliness.
Learning to be successful in one simple task, nose wiping, builds confidence and self-reliance. Remember to keep the tissues where your child can reach them. Children love being able to independently take care of their needs! It's the perfect practical life activity that toddlers crave.
Warmly,
Morahs Rachael, Pallavi, and Kristy