Quilt-making with toddlers

I've mentioned in the last post or two I've been really motivated the past few weeks to include schedule changes in the ebb and flow of our routine that just generally make life better/easier/more rich for us all.  That tiny little section of the evening after rest time and before dinner can be a beast.  It helps so much if I have something engaging and interesting out on the table for the girls when they wake up.  Then we can spend about an hour together, learning and playing with my girls getting my full attention.  Afterwards I give them a choice of getting a toy or blocks out of our toy closet and they are expected to go play on their own.  Then I start dinner, unload the dishwasher, tidy up, and on the days I'm real lucky-fold clothes! I am super fast at these chores and can actually get a lot done in a little amount of time if the girls are happy. 

And you know what?  Once this little system is working!  And they are learning so much and so excited to wake up and see what the "activity" is.  This particular day it was quilting.

This idea came right from a lady I follow on Instagram, her username appropriately called "teach preschool".  I stole a quick glance at one of her ideas she was setting up for her school kiddos and decided to make it our own at home! I simply set out masking tape, brown paper, and quilt squares for the girls to wake up to.  Both girls really surprised me with how far they took this little project!  Anna Ruth instantly had the idea to put the tape all around the fabric, just like the sections on "Granna's quilt." (my mom is an excellent quilter.  I did not inherit that talent!)

Betsy Grace surprised me too!  She carefully taped each piece down and then colored in-between each block.  This is new for her…sitting down and focusing on something for quite a long time.  Remember, she's two! 

Something I really love about learning with my girls is watching how differently each of them carry out an activity.  They are given the exact same supplies and yet every single time each of their creations turn out so unique!  The best part is they never even look up to see what their sister is doing.  I like that because they are very fully confident in their own ideas. I pray this confidence lasts and lasts.

Another sweet moment captured after a different day's activities 'round the table. 

One of the sweetest spots of us gathering together is that I've noticed the girls are much more willing to show love to each other once I've been there with them, showing them how to talk to and treat each other. 

I suppose this reminds me of our relationship with Jesus and how we treat others too. 

Once we've spent time with Him isn't our confidence built, our souls ready to love on others around us? 

Happy Quilt-Making!