Fun in the Sand - 3 year old Class

The children had a wonderful time playing in the sandbox today. They were laughing, communicating and working both independently as well as together. The weather was unseasonably warm, and having rained the day before, the puddles were very inviting, and accentuated the play.

Sand-Play is a simple activity that has so much to offer children. Sand is a soothing, entertaining and open-ended medium. Very young children can simply sit in sand and take in the texture and qualities of the medium. Older children with more sophisticated thought processes can use sand for exploration and creative play.

Sand-Play promotes physical development. By digging, pouring, sifting and scooping, children use their upper bodies and arms in ways that many of their other toys don't require them to do. Large amounts of sand can become very heavy when weighted down with water, and can use a lot of muscle power to dig and transport from one area to another.

Sand-Play can be the ideal opportunity to further the development of the minds and bodies of children. No matter the age or development level of the child, sand offers an opportunity to explore and experiment in a safe and inviting environment.

It was thoroughly enjoyable watching the children play in the sand today. While dropping wet sand into a bucket, Koen said 'it makes a glickity glok' sound. I listened and indeed, that was the sound it made!!

Until next time!

Barbi

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West Richmond Preschool

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