Sunflower Babies

Group art projects highlighting individual data support both numeracy and social belonging.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: All About Me
• Learning area: Numeracy
• Level: Levels 1-3

Objectives

• Compare growth data (height)
• Participate in a collaborative visual display

Materials

• Sunflower patterns
• Crayons
• Baby pictures
• Birth height/weight
• Green bulletin board paper

Instructions

Materials

- Large pre-cut yellow paper flower petals.

- Brown paper circles for the flower centers.

- Printed photographs of each child.

- Glue sticks and child-safe scissors.

- Trays of sunflower seeds or yellow buttons.

- Number cards labeled 1 through 10.

Learning Objectives

- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence by matching seeds to written numerals.

- Identify and name personal facial features during the assembly process.

- Practice fine motor control through precise placement of small objects.

- Sort and count items to reach a specific target quantity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by gathering the children in a circle to discuss how sunflowers grow tall and bright, just like they are growing.

2. Provide each child with a brown paper circle and ask them to glue their photograph in the center.

3. Distribute the yellow petals and assist children in gluing them around the brown center to create a frame.

4. Place a number card in front of each child, explaining that this is their target number for the sunflower seeds.

5. Demonstrate how to count out the exact number of seeds or buttons to match the number card.

6. Instruct the children to glue their counted seeds onto the brown center of their flower.

7. Encourage children to count their seeds aloud one final time to ensure the total matches their card.

8. Display the finished sunflowers on a classroom wall to create a garden of individual portraits.

9. Circulate among the children to ask open-ended questions about their number and their physical features.

10. Conclude the activity by reviewing the different numbers represented across the classroom.

Educator Tip

To differentiate for younger learners, provide pre-counted sets of seeds or use larger manipulatives like blocks. For advanced learners, encourage them to create two sunflowers and add the seeds together to find a sum.

Assessment

- Observe if the child can accurately count objects one-by-one while touching each item.

- Note the child's ability to recognize and match the written numeral to the quantity of seeds.

- Record whether the child can identify their own photograph and name their facial features during the task.

Educator tip

Use descriptive language as you display and compare student sunflowers.

Assessment

Assess understanding of height comparison and participation in completing the visual timeline.

More from All About Me

• Me Doll
• Chicken Soup
• Nibbling Hands and Feet
• My Feelings
• Teach Me Technology II
• Sit and Stack
• Nibbling Hands and Feet II
• My Hands