November 6th, 2009 Things we like to do when we are 3 Posted by Melitsa in language, play activities, pretend play, Thought of the week

…well almost 4!

There have been a few discussions on Momslikeme  that got me thinking, asking about learning games or activities to play with their preschool  children at home.

Here’s what my MO does……………

Find the hidden objects in the magazine

He doesn’t have to sit and stay. He can bounce in place and skip pages. It’s all in fun. He can get lost in the page and determined to find that last hidden object. He laughs because the pictures are funny. He sees things differently now. He gets that things aren’t always what they seem. He can get the magazine out whenever he wants. It’s a solo activity or one to share.

Make up games

These object cards really help in the initial speech session of both the older boys. The therapist would hide the cards all around the room, under,over, inside, behind etc. They would then have to find the cards by direction  ( behind the chair or getting warmer depending on everyone’s  mood) When they found it they would try and say what it was. It was a fast and furious game that worked well for both boys who had lots of energy. All the cards were based on a sound or a theme we were working on. As with all good games, eventually they get turned on you.

MO variation: Mummy has to say the object, “Apple”. Then he runs and hides it while I close my eyes without peeking. ( reminds me from his hiding spot) I have to ignore the furtive looks to the hidden object but be guided by hot and getting hotter to find the object in short time.

Since it’s in alphabetical order, this is one of those things I keep out of reach usually so when it’s out they are drawn to the pictures and gain deep pleasure in just naming objects and telling me who has it or “We have that” etc. They get to learn new vocabulary but I think they just like the pictures. I’m fine with that. Makes a good “No outdoor day” activity.

Become a burrito

Roll them up
Put on the toppings….splat splat goes the sour cream. Handfuls of lettuce. Few olives on the nose ( our family fun) I ask what next…usually tomatoes and carrots ( don’t ask me why carrots- we don’t eat our burritos with carrots but there you go )
Then grab the end and unroll them so they roll out of the blanket.

…..dress up as a superhero

…..fly on your magic carpet

….hide from your younger brother but giggle so much he comes straight over and falls on top of you.

…..sing The Wheels on the bus……all day long!

What things do your children like to do when they are 3? Share them in the comments

Melitsa Avila is a former teacher, mother of three boys and military wife who talks about living an intentional play lifestyle using practical and everyday play activities to do with the under 5s. She publishes related ebooks & newsletters. Melitsa is the host and producer of a weekly Early Childhood radio show: Raising Playful Tots bringing parents and carers together with Early childhood practitioners. Thanks for reading!

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