Play involving hands and feet can help develop observation and thinking skills beyond simple recognition of size, shape and pattern. Marianne Sargent suggests some ideas.

Hands and feet is a popular topic in the early years and offers many opportunities for exploring the usual themes around size, shape and pattern. However, it also lends itself well to some more creative activities that aim to get children thinking. The following ideas range from the simple and straightforward to the more challenging and thought-provoking.

Hand and foot printing can be used for a variety of activities.

Handprints Cut out colourful prints to create collages.

Footprints Provide poster paint and large sheets of paper for children to walk on to create patterns; cut out footprints for the children to arrange in order of size.

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Posted under:

Curriculum Practice Activities Enabling Environments