Social-Emotional Development
Elephant Bathing
Encourage your child to interlace their fingers and stretch their arms out in front of their body to represent an elephant’s trunk. Have them bend down, taking in a deep breath, pretending to suck water into their trunk. Then have them swing their trunk over one shoulder and slowly exhale as they shower their back with water. Repeat several times, alternating shoulders.
Cognitive Development
Walk the Number Line
Use sidewalk chalk to draw a number line (1-10) on the sidewalk or place numbered sheets of paper in order on the floor (your child can help you with this). Encourage your child to step on the number line, one number at a time saying each number as they go. They can try walking and counting backwards from 10 to 1. Note: If using paper numbers be careful your child doesn’t slip, the paper could be taped down, if needed.
https://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2014/03/outdoor-number-line-activity.html
Physical Literacy
Kangaroo Jumps
Lay a 40’ string outside on the ground. Explain to your child that 40 feet is the distance that a kangaroo can jump. Have your child stand at the end of the rope and jump “as far as a kangaroo”. Use a bean bag to mark the distance of the jump. Your child can try several times to see if they can improve their distance. Challenge all family members to join in the fun.
Language Development
Zoo Talk
Talk with your child about the zoo. What is their favourite animal? Why? Which zoo animal is tall? What zoo animals are related to cats? What zoo animals have stripes? What zoo animals have spots? If you were a veterinarian at the zoo, which animals would you like to care for? Help your child write the names of their favourite animals.
Creative Activity
Home for a Zoo Animal
Collect small rocks, twigs, etc. on a neighbourhood walk. Have your child choose their favourite toy zoo animal. Provide a box, gathered natural materials and art supplies for your child to create a habitat or home for their animal.
https://play-trains.com/diy-zoo-train-set-for-wooden-trains/
Additional Resources
Visit NASA’s website to view a collection of stories, games, videos and at-home activities for children in grades K-12. https://www.nasa.gov/stem/forstudents/k-4/index.html
KateMessner.com: A collection of favourite authors and illustrators share resources that include video read-alouds, drawing and writing lessons
Making Shadows
Learning at Home Preschool Week 22
