How a forklift moves hay bales (for a 6-year-old)

A forklift is like big, strong hands on wheels. Farmers use it to pick up heavy hay bales and put them on a truck so animals can eat.

Parts to know

• Forks — the two long metal 'fingers' that slide under the hay.
• Driver — the person who sits in the forklift and drives it.
• Hydraulic lift — a very strong arm that raises and lowers the forks.

Step-by-step

1. The driver drives the forklift close to a hay bale.
2. They slide the forks under the bale, like putting your hands under a heavy box.
3. The driver lifts the forks and the bale goes up with them.
4. They slowly drive to the truck while holding the bale up.
5. They line up the bale where it should go on the truck.
6. They lower the forks and put the bale onto the truck, then back away.

Safety

• Always watch from a safe distance and stay with a grown-up.
• Never stand in front of or under something that is being lifted.
• Drivers wear seatbelts and sometimes helmets to stay safe.

Fun idea: Draw a picture of the forklift putting a hay bale on a truck. Can you label the forks, driver, and truck?