After we share and play, the toys are everywhere. Then it is time to tidy up.
Key idea
When we finish playing, we put toys back where they belong. Everyone who played helps.
Why it works
Tidying keeps toys safe and easy to find next time. Helping together is fair, and it is faster.
A good trick is to tidy as you go. When you finish with one toy, put it away before you take out the next one.
Worked example: Let's practice
Leo plays with blocks at Mia's house. It is almost time to go. What should Leo do?
- Leo played with the blocks too.
- They belong in the bin.
- He helps Mia put them away before he goes.
Answer: Leo helps Mia put the blocks in the bin.
Common mistake
Leaving the cleanup to the grown-ups or to whoever owns the toys. Everyone who played helps tidy.
For the grown-up. Use a clean-up song and a timer: “Can we beat the song?” Give simple jobs (“You do the red blocks, I'll do the blue”) and a place for everything, with pictures on bins for non-readers.