Domain: NC Foundations for Early Learning: Health and Physical Development (HPD)

Subdomain: Self-Care

Goal: Children develop independence in caring for themselves and their environment.

Skill Progression: Self-care

Age: 48-54 Months

Click here to go to all skills for ages 48-54 Months.

Observe the child setting the table for a meal or snack and clearing his own dishes after a meal or snack.

Ask the child to set the table for snack. See what he can do without prompting. Remind the child to clear his dishes after eating.

The child knows what is needed and sets the appropriate materials on the table (especially if the materials are organized where the child can see them).

Early childhood educators and parents should involve children in planning, preparing, setting up for, serving, and cleaning up snack, lunch, and dinner. This teaches skills of sorting, counting, etc., involves fine motor and gross motor skills, and teaches responsibility and self-care. Encourage adults to have children brush teeth and wash up after each meal.