Sensory play is an
important part of a childs development and learning. It provides children with
endless opportunities to explore and develop skills. Best of all, the
open-ended learning is therapeutic, as it calms and relaxes our minds.
With all this
in mind, we created an experience for the children. We added soap to warm water
and provided whisks, strainers, and hand mixers. First, the children wanted to
scoop the water. Since we intentionally did not provide any cups for pouring,
the children put their hands in the water and quickly learned how to scoop the
water by putting their two hands together.
Then, the fun
began. The children began to explore and experiment with the tools provided.
The children with the hand mixers realized that when they turned the egg
beaters, bubbles began to appear. The children with the whisks started to whisk
the water and more bubbles began to appear. Soon, we had a tub full of bubbles.
Strainers were used to scoop up the bubbles.
Children learn
through exploration, experimentation and curiousity. By providing a water provocation,
the children were able to learn and become interested in the subject. Without
thinking, we often want to answer all the childrens’ questions. However, by
providing an avenue for them to seek and answer their own curiousities, it
stimulates their minds and improves their critical thinking and scientific
skills.
Science is an
important subject and made more important by enjoying the understanding with
lots of fun.
Until next time,
Karen
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