Select and Use a Tool for a Garden Job

Curriculum skill focus: Tool identification, motor planning, safety, functional decision-making

01 · Learning

Objectives

• Choose a suitable tool for moving material, watering or cleaning.
• Complete or direct a brief safe action and return the tool before changing tasks.
• Explain one choice based on job requirements and individual access rather than the tool’s name alone.

02 · Preparation

Materials

A blunt scoop, small empty watering can and soft brush; job pictures; a tray and empty pots; large dry paper pieces or approved soil; marked storage positions; usual AAC. Water is optional and facilitator-controlled.

03 · Practice

Adult project

1. 1

   Choose a job, such as moving a little potting material into a container or clearing a work tray. Compare two relevant tools and describe what the job requires before deciding which tool to use.

2. 2

   Inspect the chosen tool for cracks, sharp edges and pinch points. Check its weight, handle, reach and the available space; request a different tool, an approved grip adaptation or assistance if needed.

3. 3

   Watch a demonstration of one small action within the tray, followed by setting the tool down. Identify the safe work area and where the tool will go when the action is finished.

4. 4

   Try or direct the action with a small amount of material. Pause to assess whether the tool moved, poured or brushed as intended, and decide whether a change would improve control or access.

5. 5

   Return the first tool to its marked place before selecting a second job. Repeat the choice and safety check, then compare how the job changed the useful tool and the support needed.

6. 6

   Complete the job–tool–access plan with one reason for each selection and an alternative if the tool is unsuitable. Clear the tray, check that every tool is stored and wash hands after handling garden material.

Participation by choice

Individual access options

• Use dry paper pieces and an empty watering-can demonstration instead of soil or water; observation is a complete access route.
• Choose job planner, tool checker or director while a consenting partner performs the movement.
• Use seated work, a stabilized tray, an approved grip aid, two clearly spaced choices and usual AAC; decline any tool or request a different one.

Review & transfer

Reflect on the work

• What made the tool suitable for both the job and your way of working?
• What would you check or change before using it again?