Clear Your Plate

What you need

• their own empty plate
• a low worktop or table to put it on

How to do it

1. When they've finished, let them pick up their own empty plate.
2. Walk with them to the worktop.
3. Let them put it down themselves.
4. Go back for their cup.

Why it matters

Taking their plate away finishes the job they started when they carried it in, and it's the same careful carrying either way.

What they're learning

Finishing the job

In at the start, out at the end.

Careful carrying

An empty plate still needs both hands.

Tidying up

The table gets clear because of them.

What to look for

Watch for them getting up and reaching for their plate without a word from you.

A tip

Unbreakable plates and cups only, nothing hot, and no knives. Stay with them while they carry.

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