During the past month, the children in Toddler 2 have engaged in numerous activities that have enhanced their fine motor skills and fostered their physical development. These activities varied from art experiences to science experiments where the children were able to individually practice and develop their skills.
One experience that took place utilized an eye dropper tool that required the use of the pincer grasp to pinch and squeeze the dropper. The pincer grasp is the ability to hold something between the thumb and first finger. With the use of this tool, the toddlers engaged in an individual science experiment as they explored coloured vinegar and baking soda. Each child was given their own tray with baking soda sprinkled across it. They were also given a cup of vinegar with their eye dropper. The children were then invited to see what would happen when the two materials were combined together. To the children’s amazement, when put together, the two substances created a chemical reaction as they fizzed and bubbled up.
This was a very exciting discovery as the children could conduct this experiment over and over again. The toddlers watched attentively and shared their observations amongst their peers and educators.
Here are a few observations that were made:
- Isabella said “bubbles.”
- Millie identified the colour “pink.”
- Sophie exclaimed “woah!”
- Noah said “more” when his cup of vinegar was empty.
Another activity that took place was a card drop game. Slots were made in the lids of containers as the children were then provided with a deck of cards. The children utilized their fine motor abilities to pick up and slide the cards into the narrow slots. As the toddlers grasped and manipulated the cards they were strengthening all the tiny muscles in their hands. This experience also encouraged the use of hand-eye coordination and dexterity as they carefully inserted the cards into the slot.
Through some problem solving and investigation the toddlers filled their containers up with cards.
Here are some examples of exploration that took place:
- Noah discovered how to put multiple cards in the card slot at once.
- Rose and Gigi held their containers upside down and shook them to get more cards when they ran out.
- Rudra took off the lid by himself to dump out the cards after Shae put them in.
- Mila and Millie enjoyed the activity so much that they repeated the action and tried over and over again as they filled their container multiple times.
- Lincoln used both of his hands to maneuver the cards into the slot.
As the toddlers participated in these activities they focused and concentrated for long periods of time as they nurtured their natural curiosity and strengthened their fine motor coordination! Physical development experiences provide toddlers with skills and abilities to explore and interact with the world around them. This supportive environment encouraged movement and further exploration.
Stay tuned to read more about our growing and developing interests in various types of play!
