Basic Home Repair

Homes need maintenance. The child who can fix a running toilet has real power. The fix is the control — the water stops running. Indirect aim: mechanical literacy, self-reliance, preparation for adult householding.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Practical Life — Elementary
• Level: Ages 8-10

Objectives

• Tighten a loose screw
• Replace a lightbulb safely
• Fix a running toilet (flapper replacement)
• Patch a small hole in drywall

Materials

• Toolbox: screwdrivers, pliers
• Replacement lightbulbs
• Toilet flapper kit
• Spackle, putty knife, sandpaper
• Safety glasses

Instructions

1. Inventory the home's small problems. 2. Safety first: turn off water/power as needed. 3. Tighten loose screws (cabinet, hinge). 4. Replace bulb (match wattage and type). 5. Replace toilet flapper: turn off water, drain tank, unhook old, install new. 6. Patch drywall: apply spackle, let dry, sand, repaint. 7. Verify each fix holds. 8. Add tools to personal toolbox.

Educator tip

Youtube tutorials are your friend for repair techniques. But supervise electrical and plumbing work.

Assessment

Observe safe tool use, correct technique, fix durability.

More from Practical Life

• Resume and Application Writing
• Map Reading and Navigation
• Classroom Recycling System
• Carrying a Tray
• Unrolling and Rolling a Work Mat
• Pouring Water: Pitcher to Pitcher
• Pouring Dry Materials: Beans
• Spooning