Preschool

Language PlayDirections Learn simple words in different languages. Teach your child to count to ten in other languages and to say simple words like "hello," "good-bye," and "thank you." Have a theme day when you locate a country on the map and ta...

Thumbprint Mice Materials Stamp pad Paper Crayons or markersDirections Have your child press her thumb on a stamp pad and then press it onto paper. Show your child how to draw a mouse tail and ears on the thumbprint to complete each mouse. Do thi...

What's Missing? Memory GameTest your preschool child's memory skills. Can she tell what's missing in this fun game? Materials Various household objects or small toysDirections Test your preschooler's memory skills by placing a few toys or househ...

Picture a Story Materials Paper Crayons or markersDirections Have your child draw a series of four or five pictures. Have her then dictate a story to go with each picture. You can write the story on the bottom of the picture as it is told. ...

Felt Doll Materials Felt Pen or marker Cardboard Glue Scissors Scraps of yarn and fabric Shoe boxDirections Draw the shape of a person on a square of felt. The person should have clearly defined arms and legs, with the arms held away from the bod...

Cloud WatchingDirections Climate is an important part of a region's geographic character. On a warm and lazy afternoon, lay down in the grass with your child and watch the clouds drift across the sky. Talk about how clouds are formed (water evapo...

Preschool can be a great time for children to have social experiences with their peers and to be positively influenced by other caring adults. ...

Music and MovementMaterials Homemade rhythm instruments, real musical instruments, such as piano or guitar, or recorded musicDirections The goal of this activity is to have your child experience movement as it relates to music or rhythm. Play dif...

Counting AssignmentsDirections Give your child household counting assignments. Have her count all the doorknobs in the house, or all the cans in the kitchen cupboard, or all the knives, forks, and spoons in the silverware drawer. You can adapt th...

Alphabet Book Materials Small notebook or loose sheets of paper Crayons or markers Old magazines Scissors Glue Photos of friends and family (optional)Directions This is a long-term project that is great for rainy afternoons. Help your child print...

Plaster Hand and FootprintsMaterials Patch plaster or plaster of Paris 1 1/4 cups water Tin can Mixing spoon Paper plates Picture hook (optional) Directions To make the plaster mix, stir two cups of patch plaster or plaster of Paris and one and a...

Hand DrawingsMaterials Paper Crayons or markers Nail polish (optional) Sparkles or small beads GlueDirections Place your child's hands on a piece of paper and trace around them. Give your child crayons, markers, or nail polish and have her paint ...

Eyedropper Painting Materials Eyedropper Tempera paint, liquid Paper Directions Show your child how to use an eyedropper and some liquid tempera paint to drop paint onto paper to make a picture. Use different colors, if you like, and be sure to p...

Circle DancesDirections Circle dances are a great way to stress body movement. Whether you dance with several children or just one, circle dances can be a lot of fun. Try old favorites like Hokey Pokey, Looby Loo, Ring around the Rosie, Mulberry ...

The Pros and Cons of Preschool When your child is potty trained you have the option of sending her to preschool. Most preschool programs last a half day and provide structured activities and some preliminary studies to prepare your child for kin...

Backyard PicnicMaterials Blanket Picnic food Outdoor toys Directions You don't have to trek to the park to have a picnic. Set up a picnic in your own backyard: Spread out a blanket, set up the goodies, and bring out the balls and other outdoor to...

Fun with WordsDirections Ask your child to tell you what certain words mean to him. Pick out everyday words that he has likely heard before. Some suggestions to get you started: concrete, marriage, retire, divorce, bachelor, anniversary, occasio...

Portable Flannel Board Materials Shoe box Felt Flannel scraps ScissorsDirections Cover the top of a shoe box with felt to make a small flannel board. Cut colored flannel scraps into various sizes and shapes, such as animals, cars, people, circles...