For the past few weeks, our toddlers have shown great interest in water play. From washing their hands to splashing in the sink, they’re really curious about it. To help them explore this interest, the educator decided to create some special water activities.
Their fascination with water is a powerful indicator of their natural curiosity and drive for exploration.
With each individual bucket of colourful soapy water, a selection of cups in different sizes, a cup sifter, a pipe and a plastic jar, their imagination really started to take flight.
Lyle gripped on the bottom of the jar as he carefully tilted it to pour the water contents into a small cup. The educator offered praise saying, “Excellent job pouring the water in a small cup, Lyle.” Lyle paused with graceful smile on his lips, and then resumed his task.
Eva grabbed the scoop and filled her jar to the very top. She then carefully examined the contents, satisfied that she added enough water.
By providing the pipes, it was fascinating to see our toddlers’ amazement as they discovered that the water could flow and travel from one bucket to another.
Presley excitedly exclaimed, “my water, my water” as he followed the path of the water through the pipe.
After observing the children’s engagement and creativity with the water play, the next step is to expand on their growing interest in water movement and measuring. We can introduce more complex tools like funnels and different sized containers, encouraging them to experiment with volume and flow in new ways. Additionally, introducing concepts like “more” and “less” or “full” and “empty” through guided conversations can help reinforce early math skills while nurturing their problem-solving abilities