Spring has sprung! The changes in nature that come with spring – heavy rain, green grass, warmer weather, and blooming flowers – lend themselves to engaging early learning activities. To help you get started, we’ve compiled some of our favorite activity ideas to encourage children to discover the joys of spring.
Photo from Teaching 2 & 3 Year Olds
Spring is the perfect time to start a small garden by planting seeds. Gardening helps children to learn about the life cycle of plants, and to experience a sense of responsibility as they provide love and care to something that is living. If you are interested in giving this a try, Teaching 2 and 3 Year Olds has a wonderful step-by-step guide to starting a small garden!
Photo from NurtureStore
If you do not have the space or the ability to set up an actual garden, you can create a garden sensory bin to enjoy with the little ones in your care. Spring-themed sensory bins are a great way for toddlers and young preschoolers to explore different shapes and textures, including the elements of a spring garden! The bin can include dirt or “pretend dirt” buckets, shovels, flowers (play or fresh), and even vegetables! If you’re wondering how to get started, NurtureStore’s website offers some inspiring ideas.
Photo from The Cozy Red Cottage
Have you tried using natural materials as paintbrushes? Flowers make great paintbrushes because of their natural shape– the flower’s stem can be a handle while the petals can be used as brush bristles! Children can explore differences in texture and shape by investigating the different marks left by each flower. For more information about how to try this, visit The Cozy Red Cottage’s website.
If you’d like some more ideas, visit Good2Know Network on Pinterest where we post several new curriculum ideas each week!
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