Soil Investigation Lab
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 Soil Investigation Lab.
Materials
- Level-appropriate farm-themed materials and manipulatives.
Instructions
Materials
- Large plastic sensory bin or shallow tray
- Two bags of organic potting soil
- Plastic magnifying glasses
- Small plastic farm animal figures
- Child-safe plastic scoops and shovels
- Damp paper towels for cleanup
Learning Objectives
- Explore the texture of soil using tactile senses.
- Identify farm animals by placing them into the soil.
- Demonstrate fine motor control by scooping and dumping soil.
- Practise vocabulary related to the farm environment.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the sensory bin on a low table or the floor where all toddlers can reach comfortably.
2. Pour the potting soil into the bin, ensuring it is loose and free of debris.
3. Gather the children in a small circle around the bin to introduce the activity.
4. Model the sensation of touching the soil by running your fingers through it slowly.
5. Encourage the children to touch the soil, using descriptive words like soft, cool, or bumpy.
6. Introduce the plastic farm animals and demonstrate how they walk or hide in the dirt.
7. Provide scoops and shovels to allow children to move the soil from one side of the bin to the other.
8. Narrate the children's actions, such as saying, You are digging a hole for the cow.
9. Monitor the children closely to ensure they do not put the soil in their mouths.
10. Transition to cleanup by helping children wipe their hands with damp paper towels.
Educator Tip
If a child is hesitant to touch the soil, offer a plastic spoon or shovel as a bridge to tactile engagement. You can also add a small amount of water to one corner of the bin to create mud, which provides a different sensory experience for children who are ready to explore varied textures.
Assessment
- Observe if the child uses their hands or tools to manipulate the soil.
- Note if the child attempts to place the animal figures into the soil.
- Record if the child responds to simple farm-related vocabulary during the activity.
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.