Learn the Prep Step
Practice a prep routine: measure, label, and arrange materials for a simple experiment or craft, focusing on safety and organized steps.
Step-by-step guide to learn the prep step: practice measuring, labeling, and arranging materials for a simple experiment or craft
Step 1
Gather all the Materials Needed and place them on a clean flat workspace.
Step 2
Clear the workspace of toys and clutter so you have plenty of room to work.
Step 3
Ask an adult to be nearby and tell them you are practicing a prep routine.
Step 4
Write a simple checklist on your paper naming each material and how much you will use.
Step 5
Cut small strips of masking tape and write a label for each container with the marker.
Step 6
Stick each label onto the matching container so every container has a clear name.
Step 7
Use a measuring spoon or cup to measure the first amount from your checklist.
Step 8
Put the measured amount into its labeled container and set the container on the tray.
Step 9
Repeat measuring and filling each remaining item on your checklist one at a time.
Step 10
Arrange the labeled containers on the tray in the order you will use them.
Step 11
Put the measuring tools together in a small pile and wipe up any spills with a cloth.
Step 12
Take a photo or write a short note about your tidy prepared tray and share your finished preparation on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use instead of masking tape, labeled containers, or a measuring spoon if I don't have those exact items?
If you don’t have masking tape, labeled containers, or a measuring spoon, substitute sticky notes or painter’s tape for labels, small cups or clean jars as containers, and kitchen spoons or a marked yogurt cup for measuring when following the measuring and labeling steps.
My labels keep falling off or smudging while I measure and put containers on the tray—how can I fix that?
If labels peel or smudge while you measure and set containers on the tray, press each label firmly onto the container, cover masking-tape labels with a small piece of clear tape, use a permanent marker, and wipe any spills with the cloth before arranging the tray.
How can I adapt the Prep Step for younger children or make it more challenging for older kids?
For preschoolers, have an adult pre-write the checklist and pre-cut picture labels to match each container, while older kids can write detailed measurements, create their own checklist, and time themselves arranging the labeled containers on the tray.
What are simple ways to extend or personalize this prep routine once the tray is tidy?
Decorate and number the masking-tape labels to match the order you will use them, take the photo of your tidy prepared tray, and add the picture and a short note to your DIY.org post to document the outcome.
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Facts about preparation and safety for kids' experiments and crafts
✅ Simple safety steps (goggles, clean workspace, wash hands) are the easiest way to keep experiments fun and accident-free.
📏 Ancient builders used a 'cubit' (about the length of a forearm) as a measuring tool — people have measured things for thousands of years!
🏷️ Labeling your jars and trays stops mix-ups — even professional labs label samples with names and dates.
🧰 Organizing materials into trays or bins speeds up projects and keeps sharp or hot tools away from curious fingers.
🧪 Real scientists spend lots of time preparing — a careful prep step makes experiments repeatable and trustworthy.
How do I teach my child to practice a prep routine for a simple experiment or craft?
What materials do I need to practice measuring, labeling, and arranging supplies with my child?
What ages is a prep-step practice suitable for?
What are the benefits and safety tips for teaching a prep routine?
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