Sand Box Painting
Toddlers develop pre-writing and motor skills.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Gross Motor
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Draw in sand
- make marks and shapes.
Instructions
Materials
- Large plastic sandbox or shallow sensory table
- Fine grain play sand
- Washable tempera paint in squeeze bottles
- Plastic rakes and wide-bristled brushes
- Small plastic cups for mixing
- Damp cloths for cleanup
Learning Objectives
- Explore cause and effect by manipulating materials with tools.
- Strengthen hand-eye coordination through grasping and pouring motions.
- Develop sensory awareness by touching different textures.
- Practise following simple verbal directions during a group activity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the sandbox by smoothing the sand into a flat, even surface.
2. Gather the toddlers around the sandbox and demonstrate how to use a rake to create lines in the sand.
3. Introduce the paint by showing how to squeeze a small amount onto the sand surface.
4. Encourage the children to use their fingers or brushes to swirl the paint into the sand.
5. Model how to draw simple shapes or lines using a plastic brush.
6. Allow the children to explore the changing colours as the paint mixes with the sand.
7. Provide verbal feedback by describing what the children are doing, such as saying you are making a blue line.
8. Monitor the area to ensure children do not put the sand or paint in their mouths.
9. Guide the children to use damp cloths to wipe their hands when they are finished.
10. Transition the group to a hand-washing station once the activity concludes.
Educator Tip
If a child is hesitant to touch the wet paint, offer a plastic brush or stick to bridge the sensory experience. This allows the child to participate in the creative process without direct skin contact until they feel comfortable.
Assessment
- Observe if the child uses tools or fingers to manipulate the sand and paint.
- Note if the child shows interest in the colour changes occurring in the sandbox.
- Record the level of engagement and duration of the child's focus during the activity.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Participation, mark-making.