Skill
Cares for Materials
Child uses, handles, and puts away classroom and home materials appropriately, with increasing independence.
Ages 36–60 months
Why it matters
Caring for materials joins fine-motor control, memory for where things belong, and respect for a shared environment. When a child uses tools as intended and returns them to their place, they practice responsibility and self-regulation while keeping the learning space orderly and ready for the next person.
Builds toward this milestone
- appropriately handles and takes care of classroom materials. — Head Start ELOF
What mastery looks like
- Uses materials in appropriate ways during an activity rather than throwing or misusing them.
- Returns materials to their labeled place, such as blocks to the correct shelf, at cleanup.
- Handles fragile or shared items with care when reminded.
How to observe it
- At cleanup, can the child match materials to their storage spots with little help?
- Does the child use tools, such as scissors or markers, the way they are meant to be used?
Accessibility
- Use photo labels on bins and shelves so pre-readers can sort items independently.
- Offer adapted tools, such as easy-grip scissors, so every child can use materials successfully.
Activities
Evidence
- Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Early Atlas