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!
Ask your preschooler to tell you a story. Write the words on a blank piece of paper. Give them the paper and a crayon and ask them to illustrate it. Turn your child's story into a book. Provide your child with pictures from magazines, newspapers or clipart to illustrate or recreate their story.
Read it!
The Grumpy Morning by Pamela Duncan Edwards. Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion.
We're learning through Play
Do it!
Make a pile of different clothing items, such as a hat, pants, swim suits, etc. Ask questions about which items would be needed to do certain things. For example, "What would you wear when you go to bed?" Provide an opportunity for your preschooler to dress with the choices. As you help them dress, describe the clothing articles and the use. Be sure to include the color, pattern and size in your descriptions. Create a visual aid of clothing options for them to select their outfit.
Read it!
Jesse Bear, What Will You Wear? by Nancy White Carlstrom. Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina.
We're learning Social and Emotional Development
Do it!
Together, use words and pictures to make a list of things to do to be clean and healthy. For example, draw a bar of soap and write SOAP next to the picture. Create a timeline of activities for healthy behaviors, and use a checklist to show your preschooler completed activities.
Read it!
Mrs. McNosh Hangs up Her Wash by Sarah Weeks. The Flea's Sneeze by Karla Firehammer.
We're learning Mathematical Thinking and Expression
Do it!
Share a food items with your preschooler. For example, cut a piece of toast in half to share. Talk about who has the larger piece or who has a smaller piece. Develop a picture story about sharing. Use real objects for your preschooler to see, touch, and or feel parts of things. Be sure to describe equal, larger and smaller. Make a picture list of all the new words used.
Read it!
Spaghetti And Meatballs For All! by Marilyn Burns. Cora Cooks Pancit by Dorina K. Lazo Gilmore.