DIY Cleaning Basket
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Spray the Montessori Way
What can be more fun to a child than the ability to get things wet? And not just a little wet, as wet as they want; with just a little movement of the hand.
Just don't tell them it's helpful! ;)
My second child was always the type to want to do everything himself. So whenever I wanted to use my spray bottle to clean, guess who was right beside me, begging to help!? You should have seen his face when I handed him a child-size spray bottle and cleaning basket!
Now both boys have their own cleaning basket and get to use it whenever they want.
Find your things:
Baskets- these little caddies are super cute, you can buy the entire set with squeegee and cloths too.
String - If you chose a basket that doesn't already have a handle, grab a shoestring or ribbon, something thick and easy to handle.
Small spray bottle - I found one at a dollar store, there's one here or grab a set of these beautiful glass spray bottles by Sally Organics
Rags - anything you have is fine, my worn out pre-fold cloth diapers work really well to absorb all the water they like to spray!
I tied the string to both ends of the basket to make a handle. Fill the spray bottle with water (only as much as you are willing for your child to spray!), place it along with the rags in the basket. Place the basket in a place where the child can reach it.
Presentation
Cleaning something that is visibly dirty makes the lesson more effective.
Tell your child you want to show them something new.
Bring them to where you will keep the basket and say: 'This is your cleaning basket'
Take one item out at a time naming them as you go.
Go to the thing you want to clean.
Show your child how to spray a few times then wipe with a rag. Drying off all of the water you sprayed.
Do it once more then invite your child to finish the job.
Allow your child to keep spraying and cleaning until they are satisfied.
Show your child where to put it away.
Variation
Add a squeegee or other cleaning items such as a sponge or small brush.
Make sure to invite your child to help you clean whenever you do.
Follow us on Instagram to see the kids and their spray bottles in action!
