Washing Dishes

Dish washing teaches systematic cleaning, hygiene, and the complete cycle of food preparation: cook, eat, clean up.

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

Objectives

• Learn systematic dish-washing
• Practice hygiene in food service
• Build responsibility for mealtime

Materials

• Basin or child-height sink
• Dish soap
• Sponge
• Drying rack
• Towel
• Apron

Instructions

1. Put on apron. 2. Scrape food scraps into compost. 3. Fill basin with warm soapy water. 4. Wash each item: inside first, then outside. 5. Rinse under clean water. 6. Place on drying rack. 7. When done, drain basin. 8. Wipe counter. 9. Hang towel to dry.

Educator tip

Start with unbreakable dishes. Teach the order: glasses first (cleanest), then plates, then pots (dirtiest). Children love the warm water.

Assessment

Child washes dishes clean, rinses, and places on rack properly.

More from Practical Life

• 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
• Composting Kitchen Scraps
• Weeding the Garden
• Sweeping Outdoor Paths