Sand and Water Play in the Preschool Classroom
Transform Discovery Table Learning With New Materials & Play Tools
Oct 3, 2009
One of the most important features of a preschool classroom is the sand and water table, also known as a discovery table. There are a wide variety of sizes, makes, and models available in education supply catalogues and web sites.
They all, however, share one common goal. Children are able to explore math and science concepts, develop new language skills, improve fine motor function, and engage in social interactions by playing in sand and water.
Those old favorites are a great opportunity for children to have fun while they learn. One way to take this tried and true activity out of the usual box is to expand beyond water and sand. By trying different materials, play tools, and containers, teachers can spice up learning center time.
New Materials
Teachers can expand children’s discovery table experiences by offering different materials for them to explore. Instead of sand, try one of the following:
- Shredded paper
- Popcorn
- Rice, white or dyed with food coloring
- Cornmeal
- Easter grass
- Cotton balls, plain or scented with flavoring extracts like peppermint
- Potting soil with no chemical additives
- Hay or straw
- Small pine cones
- Salt
- Different kinds of pasta
Instead of water, try one of these:
- Snow or ice, while children wear mittens or gloves
- Mud
- Water mixed with mild dishwashing liquid to make bubbles
- Goop or oobleck
- Flavored gelatin
- Shaving cream
Out of the Table
Traditionally, a discovery table is purchased as a self-contained unit with a plastic tub insert designed to hold sand, water or other materials. They are usually large enough that several children at a time can play together. Some of the following alternatives allow children to have individual space in which to explore:
- Plastic dish tubs
- Aluminum roasting pans
- Cookie sheets
- Large cooking pots
- Large plastic bowls
Play Tools
A changing array of objects for children to play with at the discovery table, also help the learning process. Tools such as measuring cups, spoons, scoops, tongs, and other implements allow them to experiment with measurement, weight, and volume. Hiding things for students to find can add a whole new dimension. For example, metal objects can be hidden and found with magnets.
Dramatic play can be added by placing little people or animal figures, toy vehicles, blocks, or a small doll house or barn in the discovery table. With dirt, blocks, and small construction vehicles, a building site appears. Salt to represent snow and toy trucks with pieces of cardboard taped to the front becomes a snow plowing operation. Allow children to expand their creativity and develop new play scenarios for themselves.
Storage
Storing a collection of discovery table materials can be a challenge. Many preschools and child care centers are short on space. There are several efficient methods for organizing and storing dry items. Teachers can choose types and sizes of containers based on the amount of space available. By using recycled or donated containers, storage can also be cost effective. Try some of the following:
- Empty kitty litter buckets
- Plastic or cardboard shoe boxes
- Plastic sweater storage boxes
- Large oatmeal containers
- Large cold cereal boxes
- Large food storage containers
Developing a large collection of discovery table materials can offer families and members of the community the chance to be more involved in local preschool classrooms. Make a detailed list of items needed for the putting in the table, for alternative containers, to play with, and for storage.
Send the list out to families, post at the public library, put into church, synagogue, or mosque bulletins, or give the list to service organizations such as the Lion’s or Kiwanis Clubs. Asking for assistance allows for opportunities to bring attention to the importance of early childhood education.
New Discoveries
The discovery table is a regular feature in preschool classrooms. It offers children opportunities to develop pre-academic, language, motor, and social skills. By adding new materials, play tools, and trying new containers, teachers can breathe new life into an old favorite
 |
