SYNOPSIS:
In the party boxes today, a kite and some string - or is it a blanket and a snake? Meanwhile Tippy is in her room with a squeaky floorboard.

THEME(S): the wind, measuring and counting.

1) EXPLORING YOUR BODY    "knotstrings"
Take several pieces of string and lay them out for your child to practice picking them up using a pincer grip (using thumb and forefinger). Tying knots makes the string easier to grip. It is satisfying for the child to place the lengths they've picked up into a container.
It can take time before children are able to manipulate objects using a pincer grip so any exercise that encourages movement between forefinger and thumb is helpful - other items they could practice on are raisins, and rice.

2) EXPLORING YOUR MIND    "softloud sounds"
Make some wind! Illustrate this concept with your child by blowing on their hands, blowing soap bubbles, blowing sawdust, sand, feathers or anything light. Point out the leaves rustling on the trees and the washing drying on the line. You could also use a wind instrument like a recorder to help your child learn how to blow outwards.
This sort of activity helps a child become aware of the different parts of their bodies and how to manipulate them.

3) EXPLORING YOUR SELF
Pretend with your child to be a bird. Hold your arms out and run around in figure eights. Be a noisy bird or a quiet bird. Come in to land and take off.
Pretending to be animals is good for both physical development and is also emotionally calming.


Party Animals Parent Teacher Activities created by Elizabeth Donnelly.
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