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Pouring station: a play idea for 3 year olds

Pouring without spilling takes control, and it's a real skill they'll use at the table. It takes about 10 minutes and uses a small pitcher or measuring cup, a few cups, a tray or towel, a little water.

Checked October 29, 2026.

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How to play

Pouring station3 year olds · about 10 minutes

You need: a small pitcher or measuring cup, a few cups, a tray or towel, a little water.

  1. Set the cups on a tray with a towel underneath.
  2. Fill the pitcher with a little water.
  3. Show your child how to pour slowly into one cup.
  4. Let them fill every cup, then pour them back.

Builds: moving and using hands and thinking and problem solving. Pouring without spilling takes control, and it's a real skill they'll use at the table.

Safety: Stay within arm's length the whole time. Young children can drown in an inch or two of water, so pour the water out as soon as you finish.

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