No hardhat required!
*This is a series of activities Othergoose created for us – check out the first two challenges at the bottom!
Encourage your child to choose a favorite stuffed animal or toy to build a habitat for kids. Explain that a habitat is simply a place to live, like a house for a child, a pond for a frog, or a den for a bear. Together, talk about what might make the best habitat, and let the architecture begin! If necessary, assist your child as he/she creates an ideal spot for his/her beloved toy.
If it helps, ask your kids to imagine where you think some animals live. A bear – by the beach? Or in the forest? A penguin in the desert or where there’s ice?
Perfect for: Foundations, Nature, Habits, Transitions, Relationships
Why it Matters: Habitats hold a foundation in biology, science, and discovery, yes, but they also point to a larger concept for young children: belonging. In this seemingly simple lesson, your child is learning that everything has a home – a monumentally valuable understanding in all things childhood: from tidying scattered toys to managing separation anxiety, and everything between.
Challenge: If curiosity calls, ask your child about his/her ideal habitat! Hand over the reins for your child to design a creative habitat for his/her self – anything goes, as long as you’re together! 🙂
Related Read-Aloud: We Build Our Homes: Small Stories of Incredible Animal Architects, by Laura Knowles
Lesson 1: Today’s Play-Based Challenge: Make an Indoor Obstacle Course.
Lesson 2: Today’s Play-Based Challenge: Play Classical Charades.
