The Georgia Early Learning Standards Activity Guides may - gapitc

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Dig It!
Prepare a few science tubs for the children to explore, one child per tub. You
will need “clean” potting soil, plastic tubs, flower pots, and a few safe flower
plants. In each tub put safe simple “gardening tools” such as scoops and sifters.
Hide a few things in the soil for the children to find such as shells, plastic insects,
and plastic flowers. Be sure all items are large enough to avoid a choking hazard.
Take the tubs outside and invite a few children at a time to join you. Show them
how to use the scoops and sifters to find the hidden surprises. Then let them
explore, one child per tub. Supervise carefully to keep hands and soil away from
eyes and mouths!
Afterward, use the soil to plant flowers in pots for your classroom. Check with
a local nursery to find safe flowers that will grow in your setting. Put the flower
pots where the children can watch them grow but cannot reach them. Let the
children help you water them regularly.
Note: Check with your Child Care Services consultant or county extension office to find a
list of safe plants.
Developmental Tip
Some children do not like to put their hands in soil and sand. Do
not insist—let them watch if they choose.
Strawapple Sauce
Cooking activities introduce children to many science concepts including
measuring, using simple tools, watching ingredients change form and color,
and smelling and tasting the finished product. Here’s a simple one:
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Ask a parent to bring in a crock pot or slow cooker.
Ahead of time peel and cut apples in slices, one apple for every two
children in your class. Wash and clean a small container of strawberries
and cut in half.
Let the children help put the apples and strawberries in the crock pot.
Add water, covering about one fourth of the apples. Add cinnamon if you
wish. Set on high and cook for 3 to 4 hours. Put the crock pot in a safe
place where the children cannot reach it while it is cooking.
Start in the morning so you can enjoy the smell all day and have Strawapple
sauce for afternoon snack.
Let the children help stir when it is done. Cool before serving.
Note: Always check for allergies before preparing food!