Play and learning don't have to be opposites. This week you'll find ideas for fusing learning and playing in the great outdoors!
Treasure Hunt Story
Prepare clues that will lead to a “treasure story.” (This is a special book that you have hidden outside.) For example:
1. A treasure hunt is so much fun. Near the swing is clue number one.
2. Clue number two should be easy, too. At the top of the slide is something for you.
3. Clue number three you will find in a tree.
4. Now it’s time for clue number four. Look for it by the storage door…
Tape the clues on the playground ending with the spot where the “treasure story” is hidden. Encourage the children to help you read the clues and follow the directions. Find a shady spot and enjoy reading the book.
Sit and Write
Sit and Write
Each child will need paper, a clipboard or cardboard to write on, and a pencil or crayon. Have children spread out in a comfortable area and write stories, poems, or descriptions of what they see.
*Make clipboards from recycled corrugated cardboard and a butterfly clip.
Alphabet Walk
Tell the children that you
are going to go on an alphabet walk and look for things that begin with letters
of the alphabet. Start with A and work your way through Z. Take a
sheet of paper and write down the objects as the children identify them.
For example: A-acorn, B-bird, C-cloud, D-dirt, etc.
Letter Hop Scotch
Draw a hopscotch design
with chalk on a paved surface. Write letters in each section for the
children to identify as they hop and play.
*You could also write
numerals or words on the hopscotch.