Smoothing things out
You’ll need
- Ironing board
- Steam iron
- Small measuring jug
- Items of clothing suitable for ironing (for example, jumpers or scarves)
Before you begin
- Everyone should to bring items in to be ironed.
- To stay safe, only a few people should be around the ironing board at any time, so it’s helpful to have another calm activity running for the rest of the section.
Iron away
- Ask for a volunteer to unfold the ironing board, and then pour water into the iron and plug it in. An adult leader should be on hand to supervise and assist.
- While the iron heats up, everyone should split into pairs or small teams.
- Everyone should take it in turns to iron. Start by laying one item down on the ironing board, making sure it is as flat as possible.
- Gently glide the iron across the fabric, moving continuously so that no part is exposed to too much heat. Avoid buttons or badges that could melt.
Reflection
This activity helped you gain independence by showing you how to iron your clothes. Can you think of any scenarios when you would need to iron your clothes? What type of items might need to be ironed more often than others?
This activity was also about developing an essential life skill. Why is it important to know how to iron? What is important to remember to make sure neither you or the clothing gets burned?
Safety
All activities must be safely managed. You must complete a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate steps to reduce risk. Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Always get approval for the activity, and have suitable supervision and an InTouch process.
Adults should supervise individuals when they are ironing to make sure they stay safe. Make sure everyone is aware of the dangers of touching the iron’s hot plate, and that they do not let out bursts of steam over their arms or hands, or when facing the iron towards anyone else.
Vary the amount of time each person spends ironing.
This activity is best done in advance of a ceremony, event, or trip, but it can be completed at home.
Make it accessible
All Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible.
