There is so much to discover in nature!
This activity allows us to explore with every day materials outside!
Materials
- Paint
- Paint shirt
- Paint brushes
- Stampers; duplo; potato shapes and/or fruit
- Wet cloth or wipes
Learning Goals
- Engage, explore and experiment in their environment and use new physical skills including skills to manipulate objects and materials
- Learn about the natural environment
- Nature awareness
Process Description
Step 1
Some parents and educators cringe at the word ‘paint’ especially with toddlers but painting can be so much fun! Have wipes, painting smock and old table cloth at the ready and give it a go. It is so worth it.
Painting with your children can be therapeutic and kids love it when their parents get involved too. Use items found around the house such as Duplo, lemons or apples, cut out shapes in potatoes. These are all fantastic painting tools and your toddler can dip them into the paint to use as stampers. They will love making patterns.
Adaptation
If you don’t feel like getting messy, perhaps use water and brushes to paint outside on a wall or on rocks. A tree can be the perfect easel too and kids will love connecting with nature while they are painting.
Reflective questions
- What could have been better?
- How did I scaffold children’s learning?
- Could I have adapted the learning opportunity to reflect all children’s needs, abilities and interests
Looking and responding
Start by asking the children to describe what they see. Draw attention to details.
Author Bio
Sitting with a cuppa and playing with your toddler is the most rewarding experience, embrace these special moments! Play is a wonderful way to connect with your children, you will learn together while creating lifelong memories. ~ Katie and Kirsty Play along with us on Instagram @allthemumery
