Tactile activities are some of the best methods for children to learn about the world around them while developing new skill sets. However, some of these approaches can be downright messy. The good news is that there are a handful of interesting alternatives to consider if you hope to avoid typical cleaning headaches. Let’s look at eight suggestions.
Puppet Shows
This traditional idea can still provide a great deal of fun. Not only is it relatively easy to craft puppets from scratch, but these shows teach children about important concepts such as oral communication and dialogue.
Paper Bag Book Reports
As opposed to asking a children to describe a book, instead encourage them to bring in a paper bag which contains items that are relative to the story. They can explain why each item was selected in greater detail.
Magnet Fishing
Attach a magnet to the end of a piece of twine. Then, craft fish out of cardboard and attach them to paperclips. This learning activity will provide hours of entertainment and it can teach children about the benefits of remaining patient.
Nature Walks
Nature walks do not necessarily have to represent messy activities if they are properly supervised. These excursions can help to educate children about the environment while simultaneously catering to their more adventurous side.
Sensory Tables
Sensory tables are some of the best methods to teach children about everyday objects and to develop their ability to rely upon touch as an important sense. Prizes can likewise be awarded to those who obtain the highest number of correct guesses.
Card Games
We are not necessarily referring to poker or blackjack in this sense. On the contrary, cards can be a fun and tactile way for children to learn basic maths skills such as addition and subtraction. As they will be shown a physical representation of the results, cards can also reinforce more traditional classroom lessons. Dice may be used as an alternative.
Building with LEGO Bricks
LEGO blocks have always been useful educational tools. Not only can they foster a sense of creativity, but they teach children about fundamental concepts such as cause and effect. Software bundles such as the EYFS tracking here will help educators monitor the progress of students along the way.
Board Games
These old-school items are still relevant within modern classrooms. Board games can help to build tactile skills, to promote teamwork, to practice vocabulary, and to teach children about perseverance. Of course, the ages of the students will normally determine the complexity of the games themselves.
All of these hands-on learning techniques are fun and exciting. Furthermore, they will encourage active participation within the classroom environment. Children who actively engage in such activities are more likely to develop a sense of eager anticipation for what else may be in store. Feel free to use one or more of the suggestions mentioned above if you have been hoping to develop a highly entertaining atmosphere that promotes learning during the EYFS stage.
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