Early Atlas

Activity

I Can Do It!

A toddler practices a self-help task and shares the accomplishment with a delighted adult.

Ages 14–36 months

Inspired by Montessori confidence autonomy self-help

Supports this milestone

  • shows confidence in own abilities through relationships with others. — Head Start ELOF

Explore milestones →

Materials

  • Child-sized real tools, such as a small pitcher or a coat to put on
  • A low, accessible work space

Steps

  • Show the task slowly, for example pouring water from a small pitcher into a cup.
  • Invite the child to try and step back to let them work.
  • Resist over-helping; offer just enough support for success.
  • When the child finishes, share their delight, for example "you poured it yourself!"
  • Invite the child to show someone else what they can do.

Variations

  • Practice putting on a coat using the flip-over method.
  • Let the child carry a small tray or pour their own snack.

Differentiation

  • For beginners, choose a one-step task and a forgiving material.
  • For confident toddlers, add a second step to the sequence.

Accessibility

  • Adapt tools — larger handles, non-slip mats — so every child can succeed.
  • Celebrate effort and attempts, not only completion.

Safety

  • Use child-safe tools and supervise tasks with water or small objects.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas