Video: 2.5-Year-Old Washing Dishes and Loading the Dishwasher

Tuesday, September 10th, 2013 6:15 pm | By Stephanie Woo

Young children love water activities. And I love it when they clean, work on motor skills while I check email. Dishwashing makes both of us very happy. 

To teach your child 2-years-old-and-up how to wash dishes, set up the Learning Tower  (or a tall stool) in front of the sink, open the dishwasher, making sure the top rack is clear, give a careful demonstration of how to use a sponge, how to rinse and how to place the dishes in the dishwasher – then let them go.  The hardest – yet most critical – part of it is this: Don’t hover! Try not to even look at them. Don’t worry if they are making a mess or getting their clothes wet. I Facebook furiously to stop myself from constantly wanting to interfere with their work. You might even go to another room to stop yourself from hovering. This is your chance for a well-deserved break, so take advantage!

Reader Comments (4)

  1. Hi Stephanie,

    I like how you can relaxed and drink water while they were watching dishes. May I ask where I can find the high chair like that?

    Monday, April 21st, 2014 7:59 am | Pat
  2. Hi Pat,

    That is called a Learning Tower. Try Amazon, then do a Google Search, “Learning Tower Sale” to see if you can find a better price somewhere else. It’s an indispensable piece of furniture in my home.

    Monday, April 21st, 2014 10:34 am | Stephanie Woo

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