Soil Investigation Lab
Supports agricultural awareness, STEM integration, literacy, and social-emotional development at the Infant stage.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS At the Farm
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Developmentally appropriate objectives aligned to Infant for Soil Investigation Lab.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- Large, shallow plastic sensory bins
- Clean, chemical-free potting soil or topsoil
- Soft-bristled paintbrushes
- Small, smooth river stones
- Plastic farm animal figurines
- Damp washcloths for cleanup
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate sensory curiosity by touching or looking at the soil texture.
- Track moving objects or hands within the visual field.
- Respond to teacher verbalizations about the farm environment.
- Engage in cause and effect by manipulating soil to reveal hidden objects.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare a clean, low-level area on the floor by placing a sensory bin on a non-slip mat.
2. Fill the bin with a thin layer of soil, ensuring it is free of debris or sharp edges.
3. Bury the plastic farm animals and stones partially in the soil so they are visible but require interaction to uncover.
4. Place the infant in a seated position or on their tummy near the bin, ensuring they are supervised at all times.
5. Demonstrate the activity by gently brushing the soil with your fingers or a paintbrush to reveal an animal.
6. Narrate the process using simple language, such as "The cow is hiding in the soft dirt" or "Feel the cool soil."
7. Allow the infant to explore the texture with their hands, feet, or by watching you move the materials.
8. Monitor the infant closely to ensure they do not attempt to ingest the soil.
9. Provide a damp washcloth to wipe the infant's hands once they lose interest or the session concludes.
10. Remove the bin and sanitize the plastic animals after the activity.
Educator Tip
Infants explore primarily through touch and mouthing. If an infant is highly oral, substitute the soil with edible alternatives like crushed graham crackers or toasted oats to ensure safety while maintaining the sensory experience. Always keep the session brief, as infants typically engage in sensory play for only five to ten minutes.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant reaches toward the soil or the hidden objects.
- Note if the infant shows a change in facial expression when touching the different textures.
- Record whether the infant tracks the movement of the teacher's hands or the toys within the bin.
Educator tip
Guided questioning to encourage language, reasoning, and participation. Differentiate for ability levels; incorporate sensory supports; ensure safety.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observation checklist or rubric aligned to developmental stage.