Everyday Learning Opportunities For Your Toddler
Look around. Everywhere, there are letters and numbers, and shapes of all different sizes and colors. While we might take these for granted, our kids don’t – in fact, they are just beginning to learn about all our world has to offer. Why not take the time to make everyday learning opportunities for your toddler or preschooler?
Learning Opportunities at the Grocery
Learning opportunities exist everywhere – you just have to find them. For example, a trip to the grocery store can provide a chance to teach a young one about tastes, colors, textures, shapes, sizes, colors and more. Choose a cart or a basket – how are they different? Are they the same size or color? Which one has wheels? Which one is heavier?
Sizes & Shapes
In the produce section, compare two apples – is one larger than the other? More round? More red (or green or yellow)? What does the display sign say? If apples are sold by weight, select two and weigh them on the scale. If sold in quantities, count out with your child how many you want to buy.
Texture
Compare the textures of various fruits. Kiwi are covered with a brown, fur like skin; avocados are black and bumpy. Bananas are yellow and smooth. See if your child can identify the colors or shapes. Think about buying a selection of fruits for an at-home taste test to compare the insides’ colors, textures and tastes.
Take a stroll to the deli counter and compare the types of cheese, deli meats, etc. (Be sure to ask the nice person behind the counter for a sample for the little one!) Look at the names of the various items and compare them.
Counting
At the checkout, count out the items as you place them on the conveyor. How many oranges are you buying? Grapes? Gallons of milk? What colors are displayed on the conveyor? You can also talk to your child about the types of bags we use to carry groceries home, such as paper, plastic and re-usable, and their affect on the environment.
Learning opportunities for little ones are all around us. Take a few minutes during your next trip to the supermarket to explore our diverse world and talk about it with your little one.
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