​​​​​​​​​Materials: Flashlight, toys, paper, pencil, camera.

STEP 1

Point out shadows in your home. Use a flashlight if you need to create some. Ask your child questions like:

  • What is that?
  • How did that get there?

STEP 2

Trace or draw the shadow with a finger or onto a piece of paper. Talk about how you have to use curved and straight lines to trace a shadow.

STEP 3

Compare your shadow with your child’s shadow. Use math and shape words like larger, smaller, taller, shorter, circle, triangle, square, and rectangle.

MAKE IT EASIER:

Play “I Spy a Shadow” around your home.

EXTEND THE LEARNING:

  • Ask your child what a shadow reminds them of and share what you think.
  • Take pictures of the shadows you make. Discuss how shadows change depending on where the light hits the object and how close the light is. This idea leads to conversations about how the Earth moves around the Sun.

WHAT IS MY CHILD LEARNING?

Your child is learning prewriting skills by drawing, comparing, and discussing shapes. Also, they are exploring technology, math, science, and language skills.

WHY?

This activity encourages persistence by sticking to a plan. Explore and compare experiences and build upon knowledge of the scientific process, tools, and technology.​

child drawing on the floor