Composting Exploration
Supports agricultural awareness, STEM integration, literacy, and social-emotional development at the Toddler stage.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Farm
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS 2-3
Objectives
- Developmentally appropriate objectives aligned to Toddler for Composting Exploration.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- A clear, shallow plastic bin with a secure lid
- Pre-cut pieces of brown cardboard and dried leaves
- Fresh fruit scraps like apple cores or banana peels
- A small plastic trowel or child-safe scoop
- Magnifying glasses for teacher use
- A spray bottle filled with water
Learning Objectives
- Explore textures by touching soil, dry leaves, and fruit scraps.
- Practise fine motor skills by scooping and placing items into the bin.
- Observe the teacher modelling the concept of recycling food into earth.
- Develop vocabulary related to the farm, such as dirt, food, and grow.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the bin on a low table or the floor where children can sit comfortably around it.
2. Invite the children to touch the dry materials, such as the cardboard and leaves, to hear the crunching sounds.
3. Show the children the fruit scraps and name each item clearly.
4. Demonstrate how to place the scraps into the bin by layering them over the dry materials.
5. Allow each child to take a turn using the scoop to move a piece of fruit or a leaf into the bin.
6. Use the spray bottle to lightly mist the contents, explaining that the bin needs a little water to help the food turn into soil.
7. Secure the lid on the bin and place it in a safe, visible area of the classroom.
8. Revisit the bin every few days to let children peek inside and observe how the items begin to change.
Educator Tip
Toddlers learn best through repetition and sensory engagement. If the children lose interest in the process, focus on the sensory experience of the textures rather than the scientific outcome of composting. Keep the sessions brief to match their natural attention spans.
Assessment
- Observe if the child uses their hands or tools to manipulate the materials.
- Note if the child responds to simple verbal prompts like put it in or touch the leaf.
- Record the child's level of engagement during the sensory exploration of the bin contents.
Educator tip
Guided questioning to encourage language, reasoning, and participation. Differentiate for ability levels; incorporate sensory supports; ensure safety.
Assessment
Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observation checklist or rubric aligned to developmental stage.