It’s Wednesday, and raining here in the not-so-wintry Midwest. And as we Cat in the Hat fans know, rainy days beg the refrain, “How I wish we had something to do!…” Rather than turning on the TV (or e-versions of Dr. Seuss), our beloved bow-tied babysitter offers words of encouragement (which also inspire us to grab a real book, snuggle up, and share it):
“I know it is wet And the sun is not sunny.
But we can have Lots of good fun that is funny.”
Happy almost birthday, Dr. Seuss (March 2), BTW!
Rainy days, like all quiet time, are raw material for invention. Whatever initial twinge of “boredom” is felt is not symptomatic of media deficiency. Thus, it is important to resist temptation to electronically anesthetize. Instead, wait. Let the feeling evolve. Look around, listening for the call of ordinary materials around the house such as those used below. Then, when inspiration blossoms – go play! With this in mind, and with help from our friends at Productive Parenting, a new, unplugged activity!
Jars and Lids.
Target Age: Late One-Year Old
Materials You Will Need: assortment of jars and lids
What To Do:
Your child’s fine motor development will help with writing skills later. This activity lets your child practice screwing lids on and off while developing hand muscles and eye/hand coordination. Place several empty baby food (or other) jars and lids in front of your child. Have your child practice opening and closing the jars.
Variations:
Collect small unbreakable bottles and caps from empty bottles of shampoo and lotion you have used when staying in a hotel. Put the jars in a basket for your child to match.
Skills Learned:
Fine Motor
Eye Hand Coordination
Size and Shape Discrimination
