Cutlery Sorting: A Simple Montessori Activity for Toddlers

For toddlers as young as 18 months, cutlery sorting can be naturally integrated into daily routines. Whether it’s during dishwasher unloading or while tidying up a cutlery drawer, these little moments provide an organic opportunity for learning. There’s no need for an elaborate setup—just a simple tray with compartments and a few pieces of silverware, and you’re ready to go. It’s a great precursor to setting the table, teaching your child about order and responsibility in a natural, everyday way.

Cutlery sorting isn’t just about putting utensils in their right place—it’s about engaging your toddler’s senses. As they handle different items, they refine their tactile sensitivity, noticing subtle differences in texture, shape, and size. This hands-on experience aids in their ability to classify objects, a crucial cognitive skill. Every time your child picks up a spoon or places a fork into its designated slot, they’re learning to recognize patterns and establish order. This simple act of sorting has a profound impact on developing fine motor skills, making it an excellent example of a sorting cutlery activity and a perfect Montessori practical life experience.

Check out my toddler in action—he’s really nailed cutlery sorting on our bamboo tray. After plenty of practice, he’s now confidently placing each utensil in the right spot. Enjoy this real, everyday moment!

The beauty of cutlery sorting lies in its simplicity—it’s a part of everyday living. Embracing Montessori principles doesn’t require an elaborate setup; it means recognizing and utilizing the learning opportunities that arise naturally in your home. When your toddler helps unload the dishwasher or tidy the cutlery drawer, they are engaging in a real-life activity that builds responsibility and order.

Using our APLAINR grown-up utensils with a stylish bamboo organizing tray makes this activity even more engaging. The tray’s defined compartments guide your child to sort each utensil correctly, reinforcing the concept of order and organization while ensuring safety and durability. This approach seamlessly blends learning with daily routine, allowing your child to take part in meaningful household tasks.

Cutlery sorting is more than just a tidy-up activity—it’s a precursor to setting the table and using utensils at mealtime. As toddlers become more comfortable with the idea of order, they gradually develop the skills needed to arrange their cutlery and eventually set the table on their own. While your child might start by sorting items during a quick kitchen task, these early lessons lay the groundwork for more advanced skills. In time, they will begin to handle their cutlery at meals more confidently—always with safe, age-appropriate utensils.

For more tips on advancing your toddler's utensil skills, check out our toddler knife and fork use blog post. If you’re looking for more Montessori-inspired ideas visit our Montessori Club page.

Here are two helpful reads on cutlery sorting:

• Sorting Cutlery – A Precursor to Setting the Table
• Five-Minute Montessori Cutlery Sorting