Learning through Play

Some people may think we play a lot in the Two's Class, well they are right!  When we are playing we are also learning and developing our social, emotional and cognitive skills.  We have been doing a lot of activities in the 2's Classroom lately that will set the children up for success when they begin to write.  

One of our favorite activities that we like to do is rip paper.  When a child rips paper, they are strengthening their pincer grasp.  It may look like we are making a mess, but ripping paper gets a child ready to hold a pencil.  If a child can pinch and rip paper, they are going to have an easier time holding their pencil correctly.  

Coming in at a close second is using play dough!  This not only builds upon a child's creativity, it also builds hand and arm strength that will be helpful when it is time to write.  We enjoy cutting, pulling and rolling our play dough into snakes!

We are working on a couple newer activities too.  You can try one of our favorites or one of our newer activities at home with your child to help them get more practice.  They are especially fun to do on rainy evenings when everyone is stuck inside.

Lid Activity:

I recently brought in some old dishes that had lids and tops.  We have been practicing putting on the tops as well as identifying each item.  To do this at home all you need is some tupperware!  Let your child stack the containers or sort the containers in piles of big and little.  You can also ask them what color and shape they are.  Make sure to give your child time to explore and build with the tupperware, you may be surprised at what they create!

Spray Bottle Activity:

Lately the other teachers and I have been letting the children use spray bottles with water in them.  The children use them to help "clean" around the classroom and with our watercolor paint.  You can do this at home too.  You can get a spray bottle from the dollar store and fill it with water.  Let your child water plants or clean around the house with the water and a wash cloth.


Have fun, be creative and never be afraid to make a mess!