The Four Seasons Poster
Infants learn through sensory exploration.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Attend to seasonal visuals
- respond to sensory textures.
Instructions
Materials
- Large poster board divided into four sections
- Textured fabric scraps representing seasons (cotton for winter, silk for spring, burlap for autumn, felt for summer)
- Non-toxic, washable tempera paint in seasonal colours
- Clear contact paper or laminating sheets
- Shallow sensory trays
- Soft floor mats for tummy time
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate sensory awareness by touching different fabric textures.
- Track moving objects or colorful materials with eyes.
- Respond to teacher voice and descriptive language during the activity.
- Engage in tactile exploration of paint and materials.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the poster board by gluing the four fabric textures into the designated seasonal quadrants.
2. Place the poster board on the floor and secure it with tape to ensure it does not slide during exploration.
3. Position the infant on their tummy or back on a soft mat directly in front of the poster.
4. Narrate the process by naming the seasons clearly, such as saying, "This is the soft silk for spring."
5. Gently guide the infant hand to touch the different textures, describing how each one feels against their skin.
6. Apply small dots of washable paint to the corresponding sections of the poster and cover them with clear contact paper to create a mess-free sensory surface.
7. Encourage the infant to pat or push on the contact paper to move the paint colours around.
8. Observe the infant reaction to the visual contrast of colours and the physical sensation of the textures.
9. Keep the session brief, as infants have limited attention spans for structured tasks.
Educator Tip
Focus on the sensory experience rather than the finished product. If an infant becomes overstimulated or fussy, end the activity immediately and try again during a different part of the day when the child is well-rested.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant reaches toward the textures or the paint.
- Note if the infant tracks the movement of the paint under the contact paper.
- Record vocalizations or changes in facial expression when touching different materials.
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.