Bear and I are having fun playing "What's the Same? What's Different?" at breakfast each morning.
Sometimes we use things already on the table. But as what's out on the table doesn't change much from day to day, I usually bring some things over from the playroom.
Here's what's typically on the table.
Container of oatmeal and raisins:
Bear said, "They're not the same Mommy. One is big and the other has raisins."
Cups:
"They're all cups. One is plastic. Yours is heavier and mine is lighter (of the two glasses) because I drank some of mine."
Pitchers:
"They're both pitchers! One has milk, the other water. One is smooth and the other bumpy."
Utensils:
"They're both for eating. I use a spoon for oatmeal, not a fork."
Why this type of simple activity is important:
Classifying things into categories is an important skill for practically every aspect of life. Recognizing similarities and differences is what helps the child decide if a letter is "b" or "d". Sorting into categories is a key component of science. It requires some higher level thinking to determine similarities and differences (especially as you present trickier items) and is a great brain exercise.
I love these simple ways of incorporating concepts into every day life while making conversation and keeping learning natural.
ReplyDeleteWe've been playing a game this past week where we lay out a number of objects or toys, put a blanket or towel over them and take one away. Then, the other person guesses what was taken. The kids love it and pregnant Mama gets to sit while we play :)!
I love your game Martianne. I'll have to try it with Bear. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWe call a similar game "compare and contrast" a la "Sid the Science Kid". Sometimes Anna really gets into it, sometimes she needs more help, but I agree - it allows to make observation, to think and also expands vocabulary quite a bit.
ReplyDeleteI love ideas like this that use items used throughout the day. I think it strengthens their observation skills when activities such as this one are used.
ReplyDeleteI really like this game. This will be very interesting to play with a child. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteLove it! I have a game for older kids which teaches the same concept! I played it with 5th graders but maybe we can adapt it for our kids!
ReplyDeleteI always look forward to what you will post!
Fabulous idea! We'll be doing this one soon too!
ReplyDeleteL and I have been trying this the last couple of days at meal times and having great fun. It's amazing the things that children observe. Thanks for the idea.
ReplyDelete