OVER, UNDER, AROUND AND THROUGH
Toddlers are movers  and explorers. They love to climb, crawl, move and wiggle in, out and on and through furniture and play apparatus. Whether they're bending over and looking at you through their legs, or peeking out from under a table, they enjoy seeing the world from many perspectives. These movements and explorations not only provide exercise for their large muscles, but at the same time childre are experimenting with how their bodies move through space.

 

Many toddler rooms are well stocked with climbers, jungle gyms, slides and other types of play equipment. However, simply crawling through a cardboard box, walking around and around a table or holding hands and jumping, are also ways for toddlers to exercise their bodies and imaginations.

 

GROWING SEEDS
PURPOSE:       To grow different plants from seeds. To show the importance of soil and water for growing needs.

MATERIALS:    Eggshell halves, potting soil, assortedvegetable seeds, empty egg carton to hold egg shells, small plastic spoons, pitcher of water.

PROCEDURE:   1.  Fill most of the eggshell halves with potting soil with a small plastic spoon.

                      2.  Place filled egg shells in egg carton to keep them steady.

                      3.  Plant an assortment of garden seeds in the egg shells.

                      4.  Water the seeds.

                      5.  Help the children to watch over the next few days how the plants will grow.

                      6. They can be planted outside, shell and all as they grow larger.

                      7.  Harvest the plants and let the children eat their harvest for lunch one day.

 

 

There are several ways to set up a meal for childlren, and you may find it's fun to vary your usual routine now and then.

*  Family Style - The table is set with plates, etc. at each place. The food is set out on the table and the children pass the food to each other. The provider sits with the children at the table and models good manners and eating behaviors.

* Buffet Style - Foods are placed in serving dishes and children pass along the table or counter and serve themselves and take their plates to the table.

* Picnics - You can serve these meals outside at picnic tables or on a blanket, or even inside on a blanket. Pack the foods in a basket or insulated chest to keep the foods safe if you are traveling farther than your back yard.