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Identify something to improve

Identify something to improve
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Inspect a room, toy, or routine; list problems, suggest three improvements, try one change, and evaluate whether it made things better.

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Step-by-step guide to identify something to improve

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What you need
Adult supervision required, colored pencils, notebook, pencil, sticky notes, timer or clock

Step 1

Pick one thing to improve by choosing a room a toy or a daily routine.

Step 2

Set a timer for five minutes and quietly look around or think about how the routine happens.

Step 3

Write down at least three problems you notice in your notebook.

Step 4

For each problem write one short sentence explaining why it is a problem.

Step 5

For each problem think of and write three different improvement ideas on sticky notes or in your notebook.

Step 6

Choose the best idea by circling it or moving its sticky note to the top.

Step 7

Write a simple plan with two or three small steps to try the chosen idea.

Step 8

Gather any items you need to make the change.

Step 9

Follow your plan and make the change.

Step 10

Use the changed setup or try the new routine for at least two days or for one full routine cycle.

Step 11

Watch how things go and write down what worked and what did not.

Step 12

Decide whether to keep the change modify it or try a different idea and write your decision.

Step 13

Share your finished creation and what you learned on DIY.org.

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Complete & Share
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Help!?

What can we use if we don't have sticky notes or a notebook?

Use torn paper, index cards, or a notes app/voice memo to write your three problems and three improvement ideas and then move or reorder them when choosing the best idea just like the sticky-note step.

I can't think of three problems or three improvement ideas in five minutes — what should we do?

If the 'set a timer for five minutes' step feels too short, run another five-minute round or pause the timer and use prompts (who uses it, when it goes wrong, what's messy) to help you write at least three problems and three improvement ideas.

How can we adapt this activity for younger or older children?

For younger kids, simplify by drawing problems, having a parent help write the two- or three-step plan and gather items, while older kids can follow the full process and add measurements or a photo log to share on DIY.org.

How can we extend or personalize the change after trying it for two days?

After using the changed setup for at least two days, take before-and-after photos, score what worked and what did not, try a different circled idea if needed, and post your final decision and lessons on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to identify something to improve

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

Emotions for Kids | Identifying and Managing Feelings | It's Easy With Twinkl | Twinkl USA

4 Videos

Facts about problem-solving and critical thinking for kids

🔍 Design thinking uses five friendly steps — empathize, define, ideate, prototype, test — perfect for spotting and fixing problems.

🏅 Kids who help improve their rooms or routines usually feel proud and are more likely to keep the new habits going.

📏 Measuring something simple, like minutes saved or toys on the floor, makes it clear whether a change actually helped.

💡 Thinking of at least three different ideas makes it much more likely you'll find a creative, useful improvement.

🛠️ Trying one small change (a prototype) is faster and cheaper than doing a big overhaul — and you can always tweak it!

How do you guide a child through the 'identify something to improve' activity?

To run the activity, pick one room, toy, or routine to inspect. Ask the child to observe and list problems or annoyances for 5–10 minutes. Brainstorm three possible improvements together, then choose one simple change to try (rearrange a shelf, add a label, change a step). Implement the change, use it for a day or week, and evaluate: what improved, what didn’t, and what to try next. Encourage reflection and note results.

What materials do I need for the 'identify something to improve' activity?

You’ll need a notebook or checklist, pencil or markers, sticky notes, and a timer. Optional items include a phone or camera for before/after photos, measuring tape, labels, simple tools for small changes (screwdriver, bins), and a small reward for effort. Many steps work with just paper and crayons. Keep dangerous tools out of reach and involve an adult when moving heavy items.

What ages is the 'identify something to improve' activity suitable for?

This activity suits ages about 4–14 with adult support adjusted to age. Preschoolers (4–6) can point out one problem and propose a simple fix with help. Elementary kids (7–10) can list problems, suggest three ideas, and test one independently with supervision. Tweens and teens (11–14+) can evaluate routines, collect simple data, and iterate. Adapt complexity, time, and responsibility to each child’s skills.

What are the benefits and safety tips for the 'identify something to improve' activity?

Benefits include building observation, problem-solving, planning, and communication skills while fostering responsibility and confidence. Children learn to test ideas, accept feedback, and improve routines. Safety tips: supervise any change involving tools, lifting, or chemicals; set clear boundaries about what may be moved; model safe handling; and pick age-appropriate tasks. For variety, try role swaps, timed challenges, or using checklists and photos to track results.
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