Community Helpers & Firefighter Hat Art
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'Community Helpers & Firefighter Hat Art' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- Pre-cut red sugar paper hat shapes with soft, rounded edges.
- Non-toxic, washable red and yellow finger paint.
- Clear adhesive contact paper or heavy-duty lamination pouches.
- Soft paintbrushes or foam sponges.
- A clean, sanitized high chair or floor mat for each infant.
- A picture book featuring firefighters and community helpers.
Learning Objectives
- Explore new textures through tactile engagement with paint.
- Develop visual tracking skills by following the movement of the teacher and materials.
- Respond to the teacher's voice and descriptive language during the activity.
- Strengthen fine motor skills through grasping and sensory play.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the infant in a secure, seated position such as a high chair or on a supportive floor mat.
2. Show the infant the picture book and point to the firefighter, using a calm and clear tone to name the community helper.
3. Secure a red paper hat shape to the tray or mat using tape to prevent it from sliding.
4. Place a small amount of red and yellow paint onto the paper or a nearby tray.
5. Demonstrate the painting process by gently guiding the infant's hand or allowing them to touch the paint independently.
6. Encourage the infant to explore the texture of the paint, focusing on the sensory experience rather than the final product.
7. Once the infant loses interest, remove the paper and allow it to dry in a safe, unreachable area.
8. Seal the dried art with clear contact paper to ensure it is safe for the infant to handle later.
9. Display the art at the infant's eye level to reinforce the visual connection to the community helper theme.
Educator Tip
Focus on the sensory experience rather than the aesthetic outcome. If an infant is hesitant to touch the paint, place the paint in a sealed plastic bag on top of the paper so they can squish the colours without getting messy.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant shows interest in the colours or textures provided.
- Note if the infant tracks the movement of the teacher's hands or the paint.
- Record the infant's vocalizations or physical reactions when hearing the term firefighter.
Educator tip
Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues; sanitize props; avoid small parts.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, sensory response, and regulation.