How to Teach a Child to Sweep the Floor

Children can be overwhelmed by tasks that we think are easy. Sweeping the floor is a simple task we can teach our children to do. This method gives them a visual and concrete way to get all the dirt into a pile. My daughter loves to sweep, and on good days, even asks to mop afterwards. :)

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• broom
• dustpan
• chalk or washable marker

1. The circle is bright enough to see Take a marker or chalk, depending on your preference and what will wash off of your floor. Draw a circle about 3 feet in diameter in the center of your floor.
2. The dirt is swept into the circle Have your child sweep from the edges of the room into the circle. This generates a visual for where to sweep all the dirt.
3. The child sweeps the dirt into the dustpan and throws it away Take the dustpan and sweep up the dirt in the circle. Wash the circle off of the floor.

Tips & Warnings

• Make it fun! How quickly can they do it? Weigh the dirt! Help them manage the task.
• This is not about perfectionism; it is about teaching your child a life skill. Don't nag or expect every piece of dirt to be swept up.