The weather is turning cooler, and fun outdoor activities seem to be tapering off. But is it time to pack the water and gross motor materials away? Not necessarily.

You can set up a dish washing station in your kitchen for your child to enjoy big movements and water work all year round. Here’s how.

1. Get two smallish plastic storage bins. Place them next to each other on a low table.
2. Decide how your child will get water, either by themselves with a water pitcher or with your assistance. Provide the pitcher if that’s what you’ve decided on.
3. Prepare a tiny reusable bottle of dish soap, like a travel size, a scrubber with a handle, and a cloth to clean up any spills.

The first bin on the left is for soapy water. The bin on the right is clean rinsing water. One at a time, invite your child to scrub a plate, rinse it in the clean water, and let it dry on a towel or dish rack.

Observe how your child interacts with this activity and feel free to modify often to suit ever-changing needs and abilities.

That’s it! With 3 steps of preparation, your child can work big muscles indoors while practicing the skills they see mom and dad use everyday. Your child will feel accomplished and satisfied with this new responsibility!

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