Setting the Table

Created by Rachel Steinberg, 3L Place, December 2017

Applies to: Life Skills

Purpose: To learn about how we set the table

Objectives: Members will be able to set the table independently, and by utilizing visual supports (attached)

Materials needed:

• Visual supports (attached)
• Printer
• Laminator/page protectors
• Dry Erase markers
• Scissors
• Velcro
• Plates
• Utensils (spoons, forks, etc.)

Activity Steps

1. Optional: sit down with members, and brainstorm out loud about why we might set a table.
Write ideas on whiteboard.

   a. Discussion Ideas:

• Setting the table means we are about to eat a community meal all together.
• Being a part of a community is important
• What are some good things about being a part of a community?
• Setting the table is a small thing that can bring us all together.
• We love to eat! Setting the table helps us eat!

2. Ask members if they know how to set a table. Brainstorm out loud.

3. Print and laminate visual supports. Optional: have members cut out utensils on page 2 and add Velcro to them. Add corresponding Velcro stickers to the table.

4. When it is time to set the table, go through the checklist on the first page of the visual. On the red lines, write how many of each utensil you will need. Once the member has set or collected what they need, check it off in the black box. Facilitate independence and grade the activity as much as possible/necessary. Work towards member filling out page 1 themselves.

5. If member could benefit from increased visual and motor support, have them ‘set the table’ with the pieces on page 2 first, then use that as a guide for setting the real table.