Did you know that when preschoolers play, they learn? It's true! Use these activities to encourage your preschooler to play.
We're learning Language and Literacy Skills
Do it!
Give your preschooler two-step directions, like, "Get your coat and go to the door." Or "Take off your socks and put them in the hamper." Use pictures, words and numbers to make a chart or schedule of tasks so your preschooler can visualize the steps. As they finish each step, move the task to the complete side of the schedule. Many tablets and computers have templates and apps to help you create a personalized system.
Read it!
How to Catch a Star by Oliver Jeffers. Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Kevin Henkes.
We're learning Mathematical Thinking and Expression
Do it!
Encourage your preschooler to use tongs or tweezers to pick up objects from one bowl and transfer them into another. Cotton balls or other small items are good objects for them to use. Holding their hand with yours, demonstrate and assist them with the skill. As you move the items, use words to describe what it looks like. Listen together for the sounds the objects make as it is grasped and transferred. Hold, feel and explore the objects and describe them as you play.
Read it!
How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon? by Jane Yolen. If You Decide to Go to the Moon by Faith McNulty.
We're learning Social Emotional Development
Do it!
Talk with your preschooler about things that make them nervous, scared, excited, sad and happy. Tell them things that make you feel those ways, too. Find photos of feelings in books magazines and on the web. Practice making the different faces and help them describe the feeling. Use your preschooler's hand to feel your face expressing an emotion. Discuss ways they can recognize when others may be experiencing the same feelings.
Read it!
Lotta on Troublemaker Street by Astrid Lindgren. The Way I Feel by Janan Cain.
We're learning Social Studies Thinking
Do it!
Ask your preschooler to help you plan a family meal. Together make a list of things needed from the store. Let them help you find the items at the store. Draw pictures of the grocery lists so they can recognize the foods. Provide opportunities for them to see and feel the items in many ways--canned, frozen and fresh. Point to the names and match the picture with the products. Explore the size options available. Talk about dietary restrictions and feeding concerns. When possible, help them reach, grasp and hold items along the way.
Read it!
SuperDuper Teddy by Johanna Hurwitz. Lunch by Denise Fleming.