Washing a cloth

Step 1:  Fill up the bucket.  (this is after the work has been set up and an apron or smock is put on).

 Step 2:  Get the cloth wet.

 Step 3:  Place the cloth on the board and rub soap on it. 

 Step 4:  Place the board on your belly and begin to scrub the cloth by moving it up and down.

 Step 5:  Rinse out the cloth and wring it as dry as possible.

Step 6:  Take to drying rack and use clothespins to secure. 

Step 7:  Repeat or clean up the work for the next child. 

In a Montessori environment, we encourage self-sufficiency.  Children at this age are learning to master their environment as well as the movements of their body.  Multi-step activities such as washing a cloth allows a child to have the opportunity to build confidence, independence and concentration.  At this point, most children will not be washing cloths with a washboard but this activity encourages concentration as the child becomes fully absorbed into their work.  If you were to observe this child you may have seen joy and serenity and a sense of accomplishment at the end.