The month of January had the Tod squad experiencing lots of snow! So, the educators thought what better way to utilize and experiment with all of this snow then by using it to create volcanoes with the toddlers. This hands-on activity combined outdoor play, creativity, and early science exploration. Before going outside, we prepared our volcanoes by filling up cups with vinegar, dish soap, water, and food colouring. This gave the children an opportunity to observe how different liquids can be combined and how colours change when mixed together. The toddlers watched closely, building curiosity and anticipation for what would happen next. Once outside, the cups were placed carefully into the snow, and the toddlers worked together at building the snow up around them as they shaped mini mountains. This part of the activity supported the development of fine and gross motor skills as the toddlers scooped, packed, and moulded the snow using their hands. It also encouraged problem solving, as they figured out how to make the snow stay in place, and how to shape the volcanoes so they stood high and tall. When the volcanoes erupted, the toddlers were captivated as colourful foam bubbles up and flowed down the snowy sides. This moment introduced early science concepts such as cause and effect. The children observed that when the liquids inside the cup reacted, a visible chain reaction occurred. They experienced firsthand that actions can create reactions, laying the foundation for early scientific thinking. The sensory experience of the activity was rich and engaging. The toddlers explored the cold, wet texture of the snow, the smooth cups, and the fizzy bubbles of the eruption. This supported sensory development and encouraged the children to use descriptive language as they reacted to what they saw and felt. The bright colours against the white snow also supported visual development and colour recognition. Throughout the activity, language development was also encouraged through conversation, by naming the colours, describing what was happening, and responding to the children's excitement and questions. Social skills were strengthened as the toddlers took turns, shared space and materials, and celebrated each other's volcanoes together. This snow volcano activity supported multiple areas of self, including science, motor skills, sensory exploration, language, and social interaction. Most importantly, it allowed the toddlers to learn through play in a fun, meaningful way while enjoying the outdoors. This experience created lasting memories filled with curiosity, wonder, and joy, as they all spent time together, laughing, exploring and making memories in the snow. These tiny volcanoes may have melted away, but the excitement, curiosity, and happiness of the day will stay with us for a long time!
