Materials: Water and a tub or container. Optional: bath toys, safe kitchen tools like measuring cups.
STEP 1
In the bath or in a bowl or container, play in the water with your child.
STEP 2
In the bath, try using different toys or safe kitchen tools to play with and explore the water. You could try measuring cups, funnels, bowls, or strainers.
STEP 3
Talk with your child about what they are doing. “You’re using the spoon to splash the water!” Ask questions like “Will it float or will it sink?” This is a great time for math talk–try using words like more, less, full, empty.
MAKE IT EASIER:
Infants will enjoy just playing in the water and exploring how it feels. Follow their lead!
EXTEND THE LEARNING:
In a container of water, you might add items from nature to explore differences. What happens to sand, rocks, or twigs when they are placed in water? Do they sink or float? Explore after a rain shower and find puddles for jumping.