Sweeping

Sweeping is a visible, immediate way children can contribute to their environment. This real work develops coordination and sense of community.

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

Objectives

• Learn to maintain clean floors
• Develop gross motor coordination
• Build responsibility for classroom
• Practice purposeful work

Materials

• Child-sized broom
• Dustpan with handle
• Small brush for dustpan
• Small bin or waste container

Instructions

1. Carry broom upright to work area. 2. Hold broom with two hands, one high and one low. 3. Sweep with short, controlled strokes toward a central pile. 4. Position dustpan flat on floor. 5. Sweep debris onto dustpan. 6. Use small brush for remaining particles. 7. Empty into waste container. 8. Return all materials.

Educator tip

Define the sweeping area with tape initially. Show how to sweep from edges toward center.

Assessment

Child sweeps effectively, collects debris in dustpan, and disposes properly.

More from Practical Life

• Flower Arranging
• Spreading: Butter on Bread
• Cutting Banana
• Juicing Oranges
• Walking on the Line
• Silence Game
• Greeting Others
• Waiting and Taking Turns