PL 1.03Carrying a Tray
The child learns to carry a tray with objects on it, level and steady, from the shelf to a table and back.
Presentation
- 1
Invite the child: 'I have something to show you.' Walk to the shelf together.
- 2
Hold the tray by both handles, thumbs on top and fingers underneath. Lift it straight up and off the shelf.
- 3
Hold the tray level at waist height, close to your body, with elbows bent.
- 4
Walk slowly to a table, watching the objects so they do not slide. This is the point of interest: nothing moves on the tray.
- 5
Lower the tray onto the table without a sound, with the handles at your left and right.
- 6
Pause, then lift the tray again and walk it back to the shelf.
- 7
Place it in its exact spot on the shelf. Point out that it is ready for the next person.
- 8
Invite the child: 'Now you can carry it.'
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Carry a tray with a glass object on it
- Carry a tray with a small pitcher of water on it
- Carry a tray through a busy room, stopping to wait for someone to pass
Control of error
Objects slide or tip over if the tray is not level; a sound on landing shows it was set down too fast.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Carries a tray level so the objects on it do not move
- Returns the tray to its exact spot on the shelf
- Uses this method with every tray work without reminders