Living Education for the Youngest

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Living Education for the Youngest

by Lorin
(Texas)

Hi Wendy,

I have young children, one & four. I'm enjoying more time with them outside. Do you have any thoughts on must have or must do things I should be doing with them while we are outside? What about inside? What about books for the young? As I strive to create a more wholesome atmosphere, I get overwhelmed and feel their play is not quality enough somehow. I think it is my perspective. Any tips or advice will be appreciated.

Blessings,

Lorin

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Living Education for the Youngest

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Sep 14, 2010
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Outdoor education
by: Basheerah

Hi there
Outdoor education can be really fun. A sand box is definitely a must. You can get a few seives and containers of different shapes and sizes. This is good for pre maths skills. Also, a climbing frame is another must. children feel a sense of achievement when they are able to master new things in the play ground and this self confidence flows over to their book work in the future. bean bags and buckets - they can stand a distance from the bucket, perhaps 5 steps then try to throw the bean bag into the bucket. Bean bags are easier to catch than balls - so they are a good first step in catching and throwing. giant flat rubber or plastic shapes in different colours are also handy, giant lego blocks (specifically the train) as it doesnt roll on grass, you can use it as a balancing beam for young children to walk on. Build an obstacle course by using washing baskets to climb in and out of, chairs etc - you can really be creatinve. A pair of stilt buckets can also be fun. And perhaps you can take some crayons and colouring books into the garden for a change work in a shady spot outdoors. A walk along the beach and a nature walk are also both fun and educational. List all the creatures that they spot then find out more about a few of them at home.
I hope this helps, all the best
basheera

Sep 02, 2010
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Toddler activities
by: Wendy

Hi there!
Outdoor play is a wonderful time for your children to store up knowledge of their own choosing specifically if you make a nature walk part of their week. Even with baby in the back pack or pram, there is so much they can take in.

However, we as mums, often do need to see more structure but if you just have the things available then they will use the more educational items.

On my toddler activities website there are lots and lots of ideas for you. Start with these 1 year old activities which even your 4 yr old will enjoy.

For reading and books for inside time, there are wonderful books that you can read to them and even draw little lessons and themes from the stories.

Sep 02, 2010
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quality play
by: Liz

Hi!
I know how you feel. At that age, they always wanted me "there" but were content to explore "on their own". I think essentials are a sandbox, even if it's only a recycled baby bathtub, with scoops and measures. This used to keep my guys occupied for hours (and still does!). Also I can't say enough about having a swing. We always had our best school times while swinging (think singing songs, spelling words, talking about birds, counting) all while they're pumping away. It seems to sink in easier when they are busy. When they're little, just have a pile of ideas ready that you'd like to use (which letter sound to focus on today, and then slip it in when there's a chance, or find bugs that start with certain sounds, bake buns on B day, etc!)
Have fun!

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