2020 has undoubtedly tossed us anything but the expected. And, a situation with no end in sight is certainly causing a ruckus during the holiday season! While many family traditions will be broken this year, it doesn’t mean that the fun has to stop, especially if you have children! Early childhood education goes beyond the classroom walls into everyday experiences. This year, keep the holiday spirit high by incorporating these fun activities into your festivities.
Toddlers
If one thing is sure during 2020, it’s that toddlers love to copy adults, especially their parents. While there may be fewer hands to help out in the kitchen this year, it’s time to let your little one help! No, we don’t mean put them to work preparing dinner, but instead, set them up their own kitchen. With play kitchen food, a few plastic utensils and bowls, your child will be entertained for hours while they “help” mom or dad make dinner!
Not only will you have some time on your hands to fulfill your tasks, but your toddler will be developing crucial skills through play!
Preschoolers & Kindergarteners
If your home to a preschooler or kindergartener, you know they love sensory activities as much as reading! So, as your rush around the kitchen this year, save yourself some stress with hours of sensory table fun! Thanksgiving sensory bins can be easily created with any bowl or baking pan you have handy. Here are a few of the endless possibilities:
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Fall colored pom poms
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Dried mini corns with husks
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Tabletop gourds
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Corn kernels
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Pumpkin seeds
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Pinecones
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Leaves
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Craft Feathers
Once things slow down, it’s the perfect time to grab a book or two and enjoy time together. If you don’t yet know about Pete the Cat, it’s time to catch up! This year, Pete the Cat is taking off on his First Thanksgiving, perfect for this time of the year! Slow down for the holiday business by taking a few minutes to sit and read a story with your child. This book provides the character they love in combination with a brief history of Thanksgiving. While it’s not the typical rhyming cool cat, this read is still a winner in our eyes!
No matter what the day or where you are, early childhood education can be incorporated into everything you do! While the above are just a few examples of Thanksgiving fun, we’ve merely scratched the surface!
Contact Wollaston Child Care Center for more information on early childhood education and the programs we offer (617) 773-7217.
