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Big and Small

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From: Aussie Childcare Network

Big and Small FutUndBeidl

Begin teaching concepts of big and small using everyday objects.

Materials Needed:

  • 1 big cardboard box
  • 1 small cardboard box
  • 1 texta/marker
  • Even amount of big and small objects from around the house.

What to do:

  • On the big box at the front write the word “big” and draw a picture to represent “big” such as a “big ball”.
  • On the small box at the front write the word “small” and draw a picture to represent “small” such as a “small ball”.
  • Place the boxes side by side.
  • In front of the boxes scatter the different sized objects that you have collected.
  • Ask the child to sort the objects depending on the size.

Hints and Tips:

  • Talk to the child about big and small or large and little in everyday situations and objects.
  • Brainstorm other words that also mean “big” and “small”, for example, massive, tiny etc.
  • Have child walk around the room and identifying objects which are either big or small.
  • Trace children's hands and feet and measure from biggest to smallest.

Additional Info

  • Appropriate Age: 2 year+
  • Number of Children: Individual (1), Couple (2), Few (3), Small Group (4)
  • Developmental Milestones:

    For a 2 year old child:

    - Can carry objects while working.
    - Names familiar objects.
    - Puts 2 words together.
    - Responds to direction.
    - Recognizes objects.
    - Begins to take turns and share.

    For a 3 year old child:

    - Speaks in short sentences.
    - Show or tell use of objects.
    - Does simple comparing.
    - Counts 3 or more things.
    - Puts things in order.
    - Take turns and shares.

    For a 4 year old child:

    - Classifies and sorts objects.
    - Uses size words.
    - Participates during group experiences.
    - Shares and takes turns.
  • Play Based Learning: Exploratory Play
  • Interest Areas: Block Play, Construction Area, Toy Table
  • Games Categories: Cognitive Development, Indoor Games, Language Development, Learning Games
  • EYLF Outcomes: Learning Outcome 4, Learning Outcome 5
  • Sub Outcomes:

    LO4 - Children Are Confident And Involved Learners

    4.1 Children develop dispositions for learning such as curiosity cooperation confidence creativity commitment enthusiasm persistence imagination and reflexivity

    LO5 - Children Are Effective Communicators

    5.1 Children interact verbally and non-verbally with others for a range of purposes

    5.4 Children begin to understand how symbols and pattern systems work

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