Clearing the Table

Clearing the table teaches children to complete meal routines and contribute to group cleanup.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Environment
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Learn meal cleanup
• Develop sequencing
• Build responsibility

Materials

• Dirty dishes
• Scraping container
• Dish tub
• Recycling/compost bins

Instructions

1. Remove glass/cup first (most breakable). 2. Carry to designated area. 3. Scrape food into compost. 4. Stack plates by size. 5. Gather utensils. 6. Place in dish tub. 7. Wipe placemat. 8. Return placemat to storage.

Educator tip

Teach to carry breakable items separately. Model scraping plates into compost thoughtfully.

Assessment

Child clears complete place setting safely.

More from Practical Life

• Washing Dishes
• Drying Dishes
• Sorting Recycling
• Composting Food Scraps
• Spreading with a Knife
• Cutting Soft Foods with a Knife
• Peeling Vegetables with a Peeler
• Grating Cheese