1 roll of Montessori line tape.

Essential, the white line or Montessori ellipse allows the child to:

• walk along the line keeping their balance, with feet flat on the ground
• walk along the line while carrying objects, still keeping their balance
• improve eye / foot / arm motor coordination
• refocus and concentrate

The line is 2 metres long and 70 centimetres wide, which is enough for 3 or 4 children to use it freely at the same time.

Here are the exercises offered to the children, in this order:

1. walk along the line with feet flat on the ground
2. walk along the line with feet flat, taking ant-sized steps (placing each foot right against the other)
3. walk along the line carrying a tray or a basket
4. walk along the line carrying an empty glass or pitcher
5. walk along the line carrying a glass or pitcher filled with water
6. walk along the line carrying a glass or pitcher of water on a tray
7. walk along the line carrying a candle, unlit and then lit
8. walk along the line carrying a bell that will ring if it is shaken
9. walk along the line carrying a tablespoon holding a ball
10. walk along the line carrying an object on the head (small sandbag, folded towel, etc.)

It is worth remembering that the main purpose of the white line is to walk on it and not to gather around it. It must always be kept clear so that children who wish to can walk along it.