Throughout the month, we have explored all things fall. Why? Because the toddlers are experiencing the seasonal changes in their daily lives, enjoying fun family activities on evenings and weekends, and because there is such a big opportunity for learning and discovering something new during this vibrant season. We started small, adding a sensory bag of colourful faux leaves and water. We complimented this sensory exploration with a big bin full of the same leaves that the children could climb into and play in. Soon, we transformed part of the indoor learning environment into a farm, complete with a big red barn and some bouncy animals, and later, a tractor made out of a huge box. We even added some pretend pies to our kitchen area around Thanksgiving and enjoyed our yearly Thanksgiving lunch at a large table altogether. Our play has continued outside as more and more leaves fall to the ground. We searched for some real leaves, put some in our little wheelbarrow, and stuck some onto sticky paper to add to our window inside.
Our play has brought us in so many different directions. Our farm has given us pretend play opportunities through “driving” the tractor, “feeding” the animals, and “baking” pies. The animals gave us gross motor opportunities indoors, and has encouraged social play as two children often bounce around on them at the same time. The tractor and animals helped us work on taking turns, waiting and gaining self-regulation, and being aware of others and their space. Displaying the fall artwork we have created and sitting together for a “family” meal adds a sense of belonging, helping the children feel that child care is their home away from home. And, of course, we have enjoyed endless sensory play!
We hope to continue exploring the changing season and all the fun it has to offer! Apples, pumpkins, baking, leaf rubbings, adding to our farm, raking leaves and jumping in the piles… the possibilities are endless! Which fall activities have you and your child enjoyed so far this year? We would love to explore them further in the classroom!
