PL T1.06Clearing Own Dishes
After eating, the toddler carries their plate, glass, and spoon to a low cart or tub and puts their napkin in the laundry basket.
Safety
- Glass and ceramic dishes only with supervision and where licensing allows; pick up broken pieces yourself, never the child.
- Keep the cart on a clear path with nothing to trip over.
Presentation
- 1
When the child is finished, say: 'Now we clear the table. Watch what I do.'
- 2
Stand up and push in your chair. Pick up your plate with two hands, thumbs on top and fingers underneath.
- 3
Walk slowly to the cart, looking at the plate. Scrape food into the scrap bin with the spatula. Place the plate in the tub.
- 4
Walk back and carry the glass, then the spoon, one at a time.
- 5
Put the napkin in the laundry basket.
- 6
Invite the child: 'Now you carry your plate.' Walk beside them. Setting the plate in the tub without a sound is the point of interest.
- 7
Wait while the child carries each item. Help only if they ask or a dish is about to fall.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Carry two items at once on a small tray
- Wipe their place at the table with a damp cloth
- Clear without being reminded
- Help wash the dishes at a low basin
Control of error
A plate held at a tilt drops food on the floor; a dish set down hard makes a noise.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Carries plate and glass to the cart without dropping them
- Scrapes food and places dishes in the tub
- Clears their place after meals without being reminded