Self-Care

MOVE

Preschoolers are working to complete tasks and routines with increasing independence

At A Glance

Preschoolers are increasingly able to take responsibility for their self-care. They may be more aware of personal hygiene (e.g., the need for clean hands, bodies, and teeth) and more independent during daily routines and safety practices. They are also learning when and how to ask for help. Educators can support self-care skills by encouraging children to take responsibility for themselves whenever possible while providing enough support to complete the tasks (e.g., handwashing visuals, songs, etc.).

What It Looks Like

A quick glance at how you can support preschoolers' self-help skills

Use Visuals

Visuals, like this handwashing chart, lead children through steps to help them complete tasks as independently as possible.

Support Independence

Young children can be self-sufficient when given the chance. Note how this educator reminds children how to take care of their dishes after a meal.

Promote Helping Others

Supporting children to help themselves or others, like in this video, gives them the opportunity to use their use self-care skills.

EXPLORING SELF-CARE THROUGH BOOKS

Today

Written and illustrated by Julie Morstad, this book showcases the many different choices a child might make throughout their daily routines.

EXPLORING SELF-CARE THROUGH BOOKS

The Pigeon Needs a Bath

Written and illustrated by Mo Willems, this book shows the journey of a silly and reluctant pigeon as it learns to have fun washing and getting clean.

TRAUMA-INFORMED CARE

Regression of Self-Care Skills

Trauma may cause children to show a regression of self-care skills. This article provides simple strategies for developing a safe learning environment to support children’s self-help skills.

FAMILY CONNECTION

Supporting Self-Care at Home

This article explains the importance of self-care skills, how they develop, and ways to help children strengthen their skills in any setting – at school or at home.

CONSIDERING EQUITY

Backward Chaining

Learning new routines can be frustrating for children. This tip sheet from NHS Greater Glasglow and Clyde outlines simple steps for using the backward chaining technique to teach children new self-care skills.