Sun Catchers & Letter S
Infants learn through sensory exploration and repetition.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Communication and Language
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Attend to seasonal visuals
- respond to sensory textures
- engage with caregiver narration.
Instructions
Materials
- Large letter S cutouts made from heavy cardstock.
- Clear contact paper.
- Pre-cut shapes of yellow and orange tissue paper.
- Painter tape for securing materials to the floor or table.
- A mirror for sensory exploration.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate visual tracking of bright colours and shapes.
- Respond to the sound of the letter S through teacher vocalization.
- Engage in tactile exploration of different paper textures.
- Develop fine motor skills through grasping and patting movements.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Secure the letter S cutouts to the floor or a low table using painter tape to ensure they remain stationary.
2. Peel the backing off the contact paper and secure it over the letter S with the sticky side facing upward.
3. Place the infant in a comfortable position, such as on their tummy or seated with support, in front of the sticky letter.
4. Model the activity by patting the sticky surface and saying the letter name clearly. Emphasize the S sound by stretching it out, such as sssss-sun.
5. Place small pieces of yellow and orange tissue paper within the infant's reach.
6. Encourage the infant to touch the sticky surface and the tissue paper. Assist them in pressing the paper onto the letter if they show interest.
7. Narrate the process by describing the textures and colours, such as soft paper and sticky surface.
8. Hold the finished sun catcher up to a window or mirror to show the infant how the light shines through the colours.
Educator Tip
Infants experience the world primarily through touch and sound. If an infant is hesitant to touch the sticky surface, place a piece of tissue paper on it first so they can touch the paper instead of the adhesive. This builds confidence and allows them to participate at their own comfort level.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant tracks the movement of the teacher's hand or the colorful paper.
- Record if the infant makes vocalizations in response to the sssss sound.
- Note the infant's ability to grasp or release the tissue paper pieces.
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 visual tracking and sensory engagement.