“When one door closes, another door opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” Alexander Graham Bell, Montessori supporter and founder of the Montessori Educational Association in 1913 .
Young children are naturally attracted to things that open and close. This attraction is especially true when it comes to doors, doorknobs and handles. The child’s need to know how the door works is easy to observe—and satisfy.
A Doorknob Offers Hands-on Learning, Fosters Development and Object Permanence
A knob in the child’s hand is yet another developmental material. Learning how it works builds confidence, coordination, concentration and cognitive skills. In addition, the idea of separation—something can disappear and then reappear—is realized.
The Key? Acknowledge the Interest
How we react to the child’s interest in door is the key. Rather than offer distractions or reasons not to “play” with the door, step closer, bend down and acknowledge the interest. Make eye contact and say, “I am going to show you how to open and close the door.” Once the child sees and hears your willingness to ‘help him help himself’, you will have their attention and they will feel respected.
SHOW — Slow Hands Omit Words — How to Open the Door
Ask the child to watch you first and reassure them that they will have a turn next. Silently, and using exaggerated movements, begin the lesson:
1. Once you are a forearm’s length away from the door, extend the hand closest to the hinges to create a clear sightline for the child to see your movements.
2. Grasp and hold the doorknob
3. Turn the doorknob slowly until the catch is all the way in
4. Open the door
5. With the knob still turned and the catch in, take the knob on the other side of the door with the other hand
6. Turn that knob so the catch continues to stay in the slot
7. Move past the door, through the doorway and close the door carefully and quietly
8. Release the knob slowly until you both hear the “click”
9. Give the knob a little pull to see if the catch is caught
10.Invite the child to take a turn
A Readiness for Additional Opening and Closing Activities
A fascination with how doors work can indicate a readiness for other activities involving opening and closing. Offer the child a basket with small containers and lids to remove and replace, or create a safe cabinet in the kitchen with pots, pans with lids to fit. Practical life activities, such as these, support the child’s natural development and help him to become a disciplined, ordered, caring and independent person.