Cassie, from Kent, sent in this great idea. Let’s take a look at it…
What did you do?
Let’s learn to count! How many tentacles does an octopus have? This is a great way to encourage a child to count with 1:1 correspondence.
I provided my little boy with some cheerios to place onto each tentacle according to what number was on them. This was a great way for him to practice his number sequence & number recognition. It also encouraged his speech development, fine motor skills & concentration.
Skills learnt during this activity:
Fine Motor Development
Hand-Eye Coordination and Control
Concentration
Language development – counting out loud.
Mathematics – number recognition and number sequence.
Problem solving and over coming challenges.
I made the Octopus out of playdough ( Using a circle cookie cutter for its head and rolling 8 long tentacles) I then used a fork to give the Octopus some texture and look more realistic. After putting numbers 1-8 on the tentacles, you then need your child to place the correct amount of cheerios onto the tentacle, according to the number that is on them.
This was such a fun and easy activity!
Do you have any other projects planned?
The list is too long!
Tell the Housebound With Kids community a bit about yourself…
I’m Cassie (29), first time Mum to my little boy (2.5years). We live in South East, England and I am currently studying to become an Early Years Practitioner. My little boy is obsessed with Dinosaurs and animals.
@encourage_little_minds
How are you finding being housebound so far?
I am really enjoying it. Our little boy has progressed so much since having both Mummy & Daddy with him everyday. We have loved bonding as a family and have been so grateful for this time together.
Do you have any tips for other parents?
Take each day as it comes, don’t put too much pressure on yourself and encourage little minds to learn through play there way ( base your activities around there interests so this is an invitation for them to learn and play).
Has this website and community helped you?
I think the Housebound with Kids website is fantastic and brings everyone together to support each other.
