If you’d walked into our house recently and saw everyone sitting there with their hands covering their eyes, you’d be forgiven for thinking that we’d all lost the plot.
Believe it or not, we were actually doing something of a scientific nature.
We were observing how the pupils dilate when exposed to light.
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Marshmallow building is a delicious activity that involves creative, art, maths and science! As for the end product … you can eat it! What more could you want! It is a very easy activity to set up and is relatively inexpensive. The activity allows children to explore balance, structural integrity and geometric shapes. Best of all, it’s deliciously creative! Continue reading
Okay … I admit it. This post has absolutely nothing to do with books … or any planned educational activity at all.
However, some of the best learning opportunities arise spontaneously. The day we were visited by a crazy turkey was definitely one of those experiences.
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While our pinwheel garden was absolutely beautiful and we all enjoyed watching it turn with the breeze, the boys soon found another more active use for the pinwheels: pinwheel propeller power. Playing with pinwheels allows children to experience science in action (e.g., wind power) as well as to use imagination (dramatic play). Continue reading
Here’s a quick and easy way to make a pinwheel that not only looks great but one which actually works! Yes, that’s right … it works! The boys had so much fun playing with these pinwheels that we ended up making a number of them. Heaps of fun & educational as well! Continue reading
We’re currently studying “Our Bodies” which involves talking about the various systems inside our bodies as well as the outside visible features. We needed a way to try and explain how the heart works so this is what we tried … Continue reading
Recently, the external speakers on our computer finally died. They had served their purpose well but not they were about to take on a valuable new role that their designers and makers probably hadn’t envisioned. They were about to be given to boys with screw drivers and wire cutters!
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Did you know that you can screw screws into a thick cardboard box? I didn’t until recently. It turns out that using a cardboard box is perfect if you’re learning to use an electric power tool such as a drill. Children can use power tools effectively and safely when given proper supervision and appropriate activities. Continue reading
Our goal was to make an ant farm with children. We learnt a lot through doing this activity but the lesson learnt wasn’t the one we’d planned on. For us, the learning occurred in the process rather than the end result. Here’s our story – one that’s unexpected, funny and definitely smelly! Continue reading
After a trip to the supermarket, we’ve restocked our supply of vinegar and baking soda so we’re ready to do some more experimentation. This time, we tried out the Expanding Balloon experiment. This was heaps of fun! Continue reading