Activities of everyday life are involved in all of the aspects of life. The three areas you will hear about in practical life are care for self, which includes lessons on learning to get dressed, getting their own snack and washing their hands. Grace and courtesy is the area of which social skills are developed. Children are encouraged to say please and thank you, learn how to take turns and listen to others. Finally, care for the environment is the area children learn to clean up after themselves by doing activities like putting toys away, cleaning dishes and hanging clothes. Practical life activities allow children to prepare themselves for everyday activities that can be part of anyone’s routine. We’ve compiled a list of 6 activities, so dive right in and remember to have fun!

Preparing a snack

You can start them at a young age by encouraging your child to peel off bananas and tangerines. As their hand coordination improves, they can move on to tasks like adding and mixing ingredients, squeezing orange juice, and spreading crackers or toast. Preparing their own snack will encourage them to be more independent. It will also help to develop concentration through order and sequence.

Dusting surfaces

The direct purpose of this activity is to encourage children to care for their environment. They will become aware of the accumulation of dust and help to dust independently. It will also allow them to work on their coordination and carefulness in movements. 

Greeting a person

Many parents overlook the importance of encouraging their child to greet others. This can help with developing social skills and learning to be more independent. It also emphasizes respect and care by creating special moments and practicing eye contact. Humans are social creatures and greeting people will have a big effect on how they portrait us.

Carrying a pitcher or a glass cup

Looking at the water level as you are walking can be a difficult task for little ones. This will help with your child’s concentration and coordination. It will also help them develop a sense of precision, and care in handling objects.

Mopping the floor

Mopping is a great way for toddlers to learn to gain control over their bodies and their movements. Apart from encouraging them to be physically active, it also encourages them to care for the environment. The little ones will probably not be able to mop properly, but allowing them to have their turn whenever they express interest means they will have a chance to practice and improve. 

Watering plants

Taking care of plants is a great way to teach children to care, to love and to have empathy for other living things. Exploring with soil and water will help connect your child with nature especially during days they can’t go outside. Apart from watering, you can also invite your kids to plant seeds, fertilize and repot your plants. Having a child size watering can and shovel can be quite useful for little hands. 

Invite them to join you. Show them how to do the activity. Set them up for success! 

Little ones love to be around their parents and imitate everything they do around the house. It helps develop a sense of being and belonging. Many adults find chores a dull and boring activity, so don’t discourage your child when they express interest in practical life activities. The simplest chores can actually be exciting and educational activities your kid will be happy to be involved in. In the long term, these activities will develop and improve their gross and fine motor skills, problem solving skills , and establish a strong sense of self.