In our fast-paced, over-scheduled weeks, it can sometimes be a great benefit to slow down and dig into some good hands-on fun. Instead of packing up and heading for fun away from home, try looking at home for the fun. Here are some simple, inexpensive, eco-minded ways to have open-ended fun with your young children.
Open-ended play experiences emphasize the process of the experience rather than an outcome or product. There is a freedom that allows children to show us where they are interested in taking things.
Fort-i-fied Fun:
Bring out some big boxes and blankets and let their imaginations take off.
Try adding: flashlights, covering windows.
Paint Swatch Color Match: (inside or outside)
Collect some swatches from your paint store and use them to find colors in nature or in your home.
A note about adding: You might be tempted to add more things quickly to make sure your preschooler is having a great time. We suggest asking questions that explore what your child has begun and slowly adding materials.
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Tubular Construction:
Don't throw out those tiny boxes and tubes, you'll be surprised how quickly you can collect them.
Try adding: pre-cut pieces of tape eliminates frustration, strings, hole punches. Very young preschoolers may need help with the tape.