We started Lou with pouring way earlier than I thought she would be able to, but she got it pretty quick. I think we had her pouring at 15 months, but I could be imagining things. Either way, she’s a pro now at 2.5 years. Note: Lou is left handed.

The Montessori layout for pouring is to put a pitcher, a cup and a sponge on a tray. You put just a small amount into the pitcher. Lou didn’t grasp amounts until her second year. She would over flow everything.

The little sponge is a big deal too. Lou just loves it. We cut some cheap sponge from the grocery store to fit her hand. Montessori says to put it on or near the tray (I think on) for little spills.

We started Lou with the smallest creamer, then moved up one notch then finally to the larger pitcher in the above photo. I would demonstrate pouring using both hands to hold the pitcher and see if she could do it. Here are the two smaller pitchers:

We also like to give her both pitchers so she can pour back and forth. But she needs more than just this to keep her entertained for hours. Which is where the big tray comes in, and many more tools…

Everything above is from Montessori Services.