Approach to Toddlers
In the format of approach to toddlers, one should be sure to start with activities that will be interesting at this age. Materials may include colored cubes, soft and hard toys, balls, and parts of play sets of various shapes. Sorting these objects by color, size, or order can be combined with a counting game in which children are introduced to a beginning set of numbers. The process of drawing or coloring numbers and signs of mathematical operations can be demonstrated, preparing children for further development of mathematical skills.
Science Activities for Toddlers
Primary support for developing a child’s cognitive thinking can be made by showing them/natural phenomena in a game format. Materials can include toys, special magnetic or bubble sets, or children’s dishes. Adult supervision is obligatory in activities with water and sand to avoid minor injuries or poisoning.
The introduction of constantly supervised walks to explore the environment is required. However, all necessary standards and the appropriateness of this activity to the weather must be respected. Exploring materials in sensory kits promotes sensory development, and if loose substances are added, fine motor skills can be exercised (Gizzonio et al. 135). The process is identical to the developmental activities listed and is essential for children’s growth.
Math Activities for Preschoolers
Depending on the level of engagement, aspiration, and development of children, some at this age already have basic counting skills, which explains the fairly wide age range. Combining several qualities of objects in sorting helps to develop thinking and cleverness. Materials that can come in handy in the listed activities include children’s rulers, drawing supplies, a constructor of various complexities, and toys that are convenient for counting. Accordingly, the process should involve the educator’s active participation, and each child should be given individual attention, which is very important at this stage, in addition to general activities.
Science Activities for Preschoolers
Appropriate methods for developing interest in scientific and natural processes involve using age-appropriate, specific experiment kits, albums, and paper for writing and sketching, as well as special diaries for observations. Such tools can be used, among other things, when getting acquainted with and observing species of animals and plants. The most straightforward technique, implied above, includes electronic parts of constructors designed for this activity.
Math Activities for First Graders
Attention can be paid to transferring operations from objects to writing at this stage. The addition of transfer and borrowing in the more complex forms of subtraction and addition can be supplemented by fundamental division or multiplication, depending on the composition of the group and age level. Verbally presented tasks help visualize and develop children’s imaginative thinking, helping them to do without improvised materials.
Measurement requires additional materials such as tools and objects for evaluation – children can count dimensions and learn to use scales. Attempting to sketch a three- or two-dimensional object promotes the beginning of geometry learning. Moreover, it is possible to use computer math games designed for this age (Yong et al. 2). Order counting and knowledge of numbers will also be helpful at this stage of development to facilitate understanding of mathematical operations.
Science Activities for First Graders
Analyzing more complex natural processes and conducting teacher-supervised experiments are mandatory for harmonious development at this stage. All processes involving outside elements that are hazardous to health must be conducted safely. When considering states of matter, children can be invited to sketch them, describe them in their own words, and suggest reasons for changes in these states. Materials include appropriate kits, magnets, electronic construction parts, and writing and drawing supplies. Natural processes can be analyzed considering the composition of found rocks or insects, and it is possible to become familiar with the causes of weather changes.
References
Gizzonio, Valentina, et al. “Supporting Preschoolers’ Cognitive Development: Short- and Mid-Term Effects of Fluid Reasoning, Visuospatial, and Motor Training.” Child Development, vol. 93, no. 1, 2022, pp. 134–149, Web.
Yong, Su-Ting, et al. “Let Us Rethink How to Teach Mathematics Using Gaming Principles.” International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology, vol. 52, no. 8, 2021, pp. 1175–1194, Web.