The skill of ironing and folding clothes

Organisation piloting the Good Practice

Secondary School Center Hadžići

Country

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Description of the good practice

Activity “Ironing and folding clothes with cardboard molds”  was directed to develop practical and life skills of students with developmental disabilities. Students were ironing and folding clothes with assistance from teachers. They were using prepared cardboards molds for precise folding. This activity enables them to learn skills which they can  apply in everyday life, and also they develop a sense of independence and responsibility.

Background

This practice was created as support for students with developmental disabilities to help them develop life skills that will assist them in everyday tasks and increase their independence. Cardboard molds were added to make it easier to fold and to enhance accuracy. The activity aimed to strengthen the self-confidence of students through the successful completion of specific tasks.”

  • Goal: To develop practical skills and independence of students with developmental disabilities
  • Solving problems: Difficulties with basic everyday tasks by students with developmental disabilities like ironing and stringing clothes are an important part of their future independence.

Steps to take if you want to implement the good practice from planning to execution and evaluation if included

1. Planning

  • Prepare materials: cardboard molds in different sizes and shapes for folding clothes, iron, ironing board, and clothes.
  • Organize the space to ensure safe performance of the activity.
  • Plan the roles of the teacher and assistant to support students during the task.

2. Execution

  • Demonstrate proper technique of ironing and folding clothes using molds.
  • Students practiced these actions with the assistance of teachers, following the prepared instructions.

3. Evaluation

  • Assess how well students have mastered the techniques of ironing and folding clothes.
  • Talk with students about their experiences and any difficulties they faced in order to improve the activity.

Target group/s of the practice

Students with developmental disabilities develop practical and life skills through this activity.

Number of students involved

10-15 students with developmental disabilities participated in the activity.

Benefits, impact on the students and learning outcomes

Benefits for students:

  • Developing basic skills like ironing and stringing clothes.
  • Strengthening independence and self-confidence through successfully completed everyday tasks.
  • Creating a sense of usefulness and competence.

Impact on learning outcomes:

  • Improved movement coordination and attention to details.
  • Develop a sense of responsibility regarding personal hygiene and appearance.
  • Increase motivation to learn other practical skills.

Suggestions for future users of this good practice

  • Prepare a safe space for performing activities, especially ironing, to avoid accidents.
  • Use visual instructions and demonstrations to make it easier for students to understand tasks.
  • Provide molds of different sizes  adapted to the clothes we use so that students with different abilities can complete tasks.
  • Include activities in regular school plans to develop continuous life skills for students.

Other languages

Albania – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Kosovo – Montenegro

Video