Here is a very simple activity that engages children of all ages. Instead of practicing putting coins or buttons in a bank, try putting them in a clear container with water in it. It is mesmerizing and pretty to watch them float to the bottom. Lightweight, colorful buttons were fun to watch. Fake coins were interesting because some didn't always sink. We moved on to then checking whether items would sink or float. We found small items that could fit through the slot i.e. beads, coins, popsicle sticks, etc. The toddler keeps going back to this activity (of course make sure they do not put anything small in their mouths)
For the older kids, we started a game of whether you could hit an object inside the container with a coin. We placed one of the magic grow animals (from the dollar store) in the container to watch it grow over time but then started trying to hit coins with it. If you hit the object with a coin you got a point. It was lots of fun - not much strategy just luck.
- fine motor skills
- visual tracking skills
- science learning
Just added it. Thanks for asking - your blog looks great. Do you do the linky party every Monday?
ReplyDeleteThis is brilliant! I have two kids with autism who love water and they would both get such a kick out of this, I think. Thanks for the idea. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is a cool idea that will keep my little one occupied for a long time. Excellent and thanks.
ReplyDeleteFollowing you from the Hop and looking forward to what you post next.
Jillian
http://puzzlemecomplete.blogspot.com/
Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteHi - I just love this activity. Could you please tell me where to get the large water container? It would be great for a student I work with. Thank you!
ReplyDeletecarol@autismlearn101.com
It was recycled from a large container of pretzels.
ReplyDelete