Care of the Environment

Sweeping
Materials Small broom hung with a loop, brush hung with a loop
Small basket with confetti or dried flower petals (filled as needed)
A place to store the materials, either a rack or hooks on the wall
A container with dots for the floor (or tape to mark area)
Materials for following exercises:
Push broom for outside
Short handled Bissel sweeper for rugs

Prerequisite How to use a dustpan and brush

Purposes Coordination of Movement (equilibrium, gross motor)

Equilibrium
Development of a sense of order through the exact use of each item
Care of the Environment

Age 2.5 - 4

Presentation 1. (plant a mess, if needed – utilize all natural opportunities)

2. Invite an individual child or a small group by pointing out the mess.
“Would you like me to show you how to clean up such messes?”
3. Take child(ren) to brooms. Show how to carry, have them bring it.
4. Show the child(ren) how to get a sweeping guide (dot).
5. Place dot near mess. “See this dot? I’m going to sweep all dirt here.”
6. Sweep using overlapping strokes from all angles towards dot.
7. Invite one child by name to gather the dustpan and brush.
8. Use the dustpan and brush naturally and correctly.
9. Show the child(ren) how to return all materials.
10. Invite to repeat. “You can sweep whenever you see a mess.”

Points of Interest  sticker or sweeping guide

 using smooth sweeping strokes
 making a neat pile
 tapping the broom

Following 1. Using the carpet sweeper.

Exercises 2. Using a rug brush or rug beater
3. Using the push broom outdoors.
4. Using other types of sweepers (outdoor push broom, etc.)
Care of the Environment
Sweeping