The children will also be using leg muscles as they bend to scrub the table top, as they stand on a chair at the sink to scrub vegetables, or as they push a mop to wipe up spills. Brushes or sponges are easier for the child to handle than is a cloth. Having plastic aprons or dry clothes available would be helpful for the very enthusiastic scrubbers. Brushes or sponges can easily be used with vegetables such as carrots or potatoes or on table tops. Motions are not as important in getting the job done.
Arms can go in circular or back and forth motions.
Gradually the child will learn to check that the surface is clean and to decide which motion works best. Another form of water play is helping to wash dishes. The adult might need to do some presoaking and assign the child dishes that do not break easily and can easily be handled by the child. These skills also prepare the child for standards of cleanliness when handling food. The child will learn about food safety and washing hands, equipment, and surfaces when working with food.