The rainforest plays host to an overwhelming array of plants, animals, and insects. It is impossible to accurately determine the precise amount. Some biologists estimate that there are over five million species, more than half of the world’s population of creatures elsewhere. These creatures provide a rich texture of color that adds to the intrigue of the rainforest. During circle time, we discussed the various colors of some of these animals, and concluded the morning with a color experiment! Using half and half, soap, and droppers, we observed how color is affected by soap. As it is dropped into the half and half, it quickly disperses. This is due to the fat content in the half and half. Your little scientist not only practiced their fine motor skills, but experienced the benefits of cause and effect!
Monthly Archives: June 2013
Layers of the Rainforest
The rainforest is composed of four different layers. Together, these layers provide a rich dwelling place for the creatures that live there. Using clay, sticks, and leaves, we created our own version of the canopy layer. This activity enabled your little one to gain an understanding of the physical characteristics of this lush environment.
Rainstorm!
To initiate our rainforest endeavors, we first learned about what makes a rainforest a rainforest! There are two kinds of rainforests, and they are characterized by climate, the amount of rainfall they receive, and their location on our planet! Our focus centered upon the tropical rainforests of South America, but there are also temperate rainforests that are located in higher latitudinal regions. Because young children learn best by participating in their learning experiences, we created our own rain storm! Using drum sticks, cymbals, shakers, triangles, and tambourines, we recreated the different phases of a tropical rainstorm!
Peanut Farming
Legume Sorting
Young children experience a great sense of accomplishment when they learn how to distinguish between different items. By noting their similarities and differences, they are building a foundation for more complex mathematical thinking. Using picture diagrams, we practiced sorting and counting some of our favorite legumes!
Lentil Trees
Chopsticks and Peanuts
There are several creative ways to teach young children about different cultures. By using chopsticks, your little one is gaining insight into the traditions of different countries around the world. Because we were learning about protein this week, we practiced picking peanuts up with our chopsticks! This activity fostered your little one’s fine motor development and hand-to-eye coordination skills.
Making Sandwiches at the Delicatessen!
When children participate in the kitchen, they are learning important life skills. With specific direction, they can create several tasty dishes, and enjoy the sense of autonomy that is fostered as a result. These kinds of activities provide endless opportunities for building self-esteem and increasing vocabulary! For this particular activity, we made sandwiches with the assistance of a picture diagram as we learned about the word delicatessen.