Vacuuming

Vacuuming teaches children to use power tools safely while maintaining carpeted areas.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Care of Environment
• Level: Ages 4-6

Objectives

• Learn vacuum operation
• Develop gross motor coordination
• Build independence

Materials

• Lightweight vacuum or hand vacuum
• Area to vacuum
• Waste bin

Instructions

1. Check that cord is unwound safely. 2. Plug in (with permission/supervision). 3. Turn on vacuum. 4. Move slowly over surface. 5. Overlap strokes. 6. Turn off when complete. 7. Unplug and wrap cord. 8. Empty if needed.

Educator tip

Start with handheld vacuums for smaller hands. Teach cord safety and what should not be vacuumed.

Assessment

Child vacuums area safely and stores equipment properly.

More from Practical Life

• Emptying Trash
• Scrubbing with a Brush
• Polishing Wood
• Polishing Metal
• Arranging Flowers
• Watering Plants
• Caring for a Pet
• Making a Bed