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Dirt Is OK

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From: Aussie Childcare Network

Dirt Is OK Caitlin Regan

Use dirt as a sensory experience by adding different objects and materials.

Materials Needed:

  • Patch of dirt. (or) cardboard box with some dirt in it.
  • Cars, trucks
  • Water.
  • Old spoons or small shovels.

What to do:

  • Take child into the garden and find a patch of dirt to play with or setup a cardboard box with dirt in it.
  • Use the old spoons or small shovel and begin to dig in the dirt.
  • Add toy cars and trucks that baby can interact with in the dirt. For example, making tracks, covering the cars/trucks with dirt etc.
  • Add a small amount of water to the dirt and encourage your child to play with it.

Hints and Tips:

  • Take a few old plastic containers or some plastic cups and encourage your child to spoon dirt into them.
  • Add animal figurines to the dirt.
  • Find some small rocks and sticks and add it to the dirt.
  • Your child will not need much encouraging to get down and get dirty!

Additional Info

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

    - Determined to walk unassisted.
    - Can bend over and pick up objects off the floor.
    - Can stop and change direction while walking.
    - Follows a broader range of instructions.
    - Combines language and gestures to express themselves.
    - Appreciates the company of friends and family.

  • Play Based Learning: Sensory Play, Exploratory Play, Manipulative Play
  • Interest Areas: Outdoor Area, Science and Nature, Sensory Play
  • Games Categories: Fine Motor Skills, Manipulation Games, Outdoor Games, Sensory Games, Social and Emotional
  • EYLF Outcomes: Learning Outcome 2, Learning Outcome 4, Learning Outcome 5
  • Sub Outcomes:

    LO2 - Children Are Connected With And Contribute To Their World

    2.4 Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment

    LO4 - Children Are Confident And Involved Learners

    4.2 Children develop a range of skills and processes such as problem solving inquiry experimentation hypothesising researching and investigating

    LO5 - Children Are Effective Communicators

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

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