PL 5.08Shoveling Snow
After a light snowfall, the child clears a path with a child-sized shovel, pushing and lifting small loads to the side.
Presentation
Search videos (opens YouTube in a new tab)- 1
Invite the child after a light snowfall. Dress for the cold together: coat, hat, gloves, boots.
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Carry the shovel with the blade down to the path.
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Hold the handle with one hand near the top and one hand halfway down.
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Push the shovel along the path until a small pile builds up on the blade.
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Bend your knees, lift the small load, and tip it onto the snow beside the path, away from people.
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Work from one end of the path to the other in strips. Look back at the clear path.
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Knock the snow off the shovel, hang it on its outline, and take wet gloves off inside.
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Invite the child to clear the next strip.
What catches the child’s eye
- The dark path showing through under the snow
- The pile building up on the blade
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Clear snow from the outdoor tables and bird feeder
- Measure the snow depth with a ruler before shoveling
- Scatter sand on an icy spot the adult points out
Control of error
Snow left on the path is easy to see; a load too heavy to lift shows the scoop should be smaller.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Lifts small loads with bent knees
- Clears a strip from end to end
- Hangs the shovel back and dries wet gear
Guide note
Light, fresh snow only; wet, heavy snow is adult work. Keep children away from streets, driveways in use, and plowed snow piles. Check hands and feet and bring children in before they are wet through.