This activity promotes development and learning by encouraging children to develop increasing care for self, others, and the environment.

Materials Needed:

• Cleaning materials, such as dust cloths, a vacuum, or a mop
• “Tidy” by Emily Gravett (click here)

Participants: This activity is intended for adult/child interaction and independent play.

Directions:

• Step 1: Read “Tidy” by Emily Gravett or watch and listen to a recorded version from one of our educators.
  
• Step 2: Talk about the story, which offers so many points for discussion. You could discuss how Pete loved to tidy things but didn’t always consider how others might feel. Or, how he realized he had made a mistake and tried to fix it. Or, how his friends came and helped him. Reinforce the idea that we all make mistakes sometimes and mistakes can be fixed.
  
• Step 3: Turn on some music, get out the cleaning supplies, and work together to clean up like Pete and his friends. Divvy up the jobs, asking your child which ones they’d like to tackle. When you’re done, try playing a game, baking something together, or going for a walk. Discuss the idea that as a family, “we work together so we can play together.”
  
• Step 4: Look outside your home. Is there a neighbor, family member, or friend that could use your help? Maybe someone needs a meal or a little help with yard work.