Sand and Water *

Sand and water are two properties that offer your toddler a wide range of open-ended activities. All she needs are a box of sand and pail of water to pretend she's at the beach, as she pours, presses, molds, and sifts.

Learning Skills:

•Cause and effect

•Fine motor development

•Imagination and dramatic play

•Sensory exploration

Materials:

•Large wooden or cardboard box

•Fine sand

•Bucket of water

•Sand toys, plastic animals and figures

•Sifters, cups, scoops, spoons, and other kitchen items

What to do:

1. Set a large wooden or cardboard box in the yard and fill it at least one-foot deep with fine sand.

2. Set out a bucket of water, sand toys, and kitchen items for discovery play.

3. Let your toddler enjoy exploring the sand and using her imagination as she sifts, pours, buries, and plays.

Safety:   Watch your toddler around the sand, in case she gets it in her face.