Decorating the mittens came in with a strategy and out with creative freedom.
Allow me to explain. – My idea with this preschool winter activity was to make matching mitten pairs.
But…like most days with young children, things didn’t go as planned.
Here’s how my idea morphed into his, and it still came out as a win.
My idea was to make a mitten and have my four-year-old make a matching pair.
His idea was to design new patterns.
I can meet him where he is and watch the activity evolve in a different direction than planned.
The key is the conversation that comes along for the ride. (as I sip my HOT tea, of course) New here? We call these Breakfast Invitations.
As my preschooler worked, we chatted.
I want to keep the environment playful to take more risks and extend the learning through play.
As he begins to create his pattern, we talk.
As he designs his mittens, we casually discuss what he is doing and what he is thinking as he plays.
I listen to his comments as he works and I ask open-ended questions to prompt more thinking.
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Things I say to my preschooler as he completes this easy winter activity:
- Tell me about your pattern.
- Is it the same as the other mitten?
- How are the two mittens different?
I can guide the conversation to revisit still the idea of matching pairs.
If your child enjoys making the matching pairs, you must check out Sticker Pairs, Pom Pom Matching, and Gingerbread Holiday Match-Up.
RELATED: We have a thing for stickers. Here are 12 sticker activities you’ll love!
Overtime, I have noticed how much my four-year-old enjoys making patterns.
Your child may enjoy making matching pairs of mittens.
It is all trial and error, and we learn so much about how our child thinks with these simple ideas.
Have a child that loves patterns too? Try this excellent pattern idea!
Let’s get this easy winter activity set up!
Supplies:
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- White paper
- Markers – A favorite pack!
- Dot stickers
Tape down the white paper and draw a few pairs of mittens. I like to put each mitten pair in a section to organize the playspace.
PRO TIP: Trace a mitten rather than try and draw it freehand.
You are now ready to have your preschooler decorate the mittens!
