Raking Leaves

Raking combines gross motor exercise with meaningful outdoor maintenance work, connecting children to seasonal rhythms.

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

Objectives

• Develop gross motor coordination
• Learn outdoor maintenance skills
• Connect with seasonal changes

Materials

• Child-sized rake
• Leaf bag or compost bin
• Outdoor area with fallen leaves

Instructions

1. Hold rake with both hands. 2. Stand with feet apart for balance. 3. Pull rake toward you in even strokes. 4. Gather leaves into a pile. 5. Use hands or a flat piece of cardboard to scoop. 6. Place leaves in bag or compost. 7. Check area—did you get them all?

Educator tip

Let children jump in the pile before bagging! The sensory joy of leaves enhances the experience. Discuss decomposition and composting.

Assessment

Child rakes an area clean of leaves and disposes of them properly.

More from Practical Life

• Caring for a Classroom Pet
• Gardening: Planting Seeds
• Washing Dishes
• Hanging Laundry on a Line
• Organizing a Bookshelf
• Wiping Down Tables After Meals
• Caring for Indoor Plants: Trimming and Dusting
• Cleaning Paintbrushes and Art Supplies