Preventive maintenance means taking care of something before it breaks down. This can be anything from a toy to a car to a house. Think of it like brushing your teeth before there is a cavity, instead of waiting until your tooth hurts to go to the dentist.
For example, if you have a bicycle, you can do preventive maintenance by checking the tires to make sure they are inflated and not worn out, oiling the chain to make sure it moves smoothly, and tightening any loose bolts or screws to make sure everything is securely attached.
By doing these things regularly, you can help prevent bigger problems from happening later on, which can cost more time and money to fix. And just like brushing your teeth can help keep your smile healthy, preventive maintenance can help keep your belongings working properly and lasting longer.