R4's Mookies Press

Many people may be asking what a one year old can be taught to do? At such an age will a toddler be able to follow instructions given?

The answer is 'Yes'

Even though they may not follow what you want them to do 100% of the time-as most kids do- they are able to follow simple instructions given to them.

At One he has a vocabulary of 20-60 words even though he is only able to verbalize the most 5 to 6 words clearly. [ Mummy, Daddy, Ryan, Ah Ye, Mama & mummum-food]

After his 1st birthday I have introduced him to the toothbrush and am slowly teaching him how to brush his teeth. He is able to grab the toothbrush and try to imitate his brother brushing his teeth.

I feel that he is 'old enough' to help out by assisting me with some simple household chores.

Roy is learning to:

1. Clean up- put back his toys after play
2. Take out the clothes from the washing machine and put it into the laundry basket for me to hang up.
   
3. Take his storybook out from his shelve and bring it me to read for him before bedtime. He also places the storybook back into the cupboard after reading.
4. Switch off the electronic appliances after use (TV/Radio/VCD player)
   

Ryan on the other hand has learnt to:

1. Clean up after playing
2. Keep his shoes/bag away after returning from school
3. Put the dishes/cups in the sink after use
4. Brush his own teeth and do his own toileting
   

I will be teaching him how to:

1. Help in folding the clothes ( this is also one of the activities suggested in the Montessori book that I have been reading)
2. Mentor reading to Roy ( it will help to build up the bond between the brothers and also improve his reading abilities)
3. Vacuum the floor.

I believe that kids should learn the contribute their part and help in doing household chores from young. This will be good training for them and also teach them basic life skills.

"Mummy!!" wails Roy as he prostrates himself face flat onto the floor. The first thing that came to my mind was 'Oh dear!! Did he fall or hurt himself?"

I lifted him off the floor and and checked for any bruises or cuts but found none. Roy was sobbing as he pointed to something on the dining table.

Upon investigation, I realised that Roy was trying to reach for the packet of biscuit which was on the table.

I picked up the biscuit that he was aiming for and passed it over to him. He smiled gleefully while motioning to me to tear open the packet for him. When the packet was open he happily stuck his pudgy fingers into it and fished out a biscuit before stuffing it in his mouth.


Being frustrated at his failed attempt in getting the biscuits himself. He dished out his fail-proof act-which was guaranteed for an appropriate response. Really devious this little fellow is.

Kids are very smart these days. :)

"Noooooo.....don't take my train!!" screams Ryan from the living room. "Ehh!!" goes Roy.

This is one of the typical tussle that I have to face daily when the boys play together.

" Roy... u must ask me for permission before you take my toy," says Ryan" OK! Ask first then I will lend you my toy." [ Mentoring to Roy on how to share and take turns]

A few seconds later he starts hollering again. " Mummy!!! Roy took my toy WITHOUT PERMISSION AGAIN!!! I want you to come here and scold him. He is so rude. Take my toy without asking."

I dropped my laundry and walk over to where they are and approached Roy.

" Roy, you must ask your brother for his permission before you take his train to play," I say.

" Please give mummy the train." I stretch out my hand for it and Roy places the train on my palm.

Handing back the train to Ryan I gestured Roy to ask him for it as his eyes were still transfixed on the train.

Roy glanced at his brother, went over tapped his shoulder, pointed at the train and said " Ehh".

" Ryan , Roy asked you for your permission. Pass him the toy."

Ryan still feeling defiant and unwilling to share his train replies " I didn't hear Roy say can I have the train please?"

" Well.. what do you expect your brother to say? He is only ONE!!!" I reply.