Gloop is a wonderfully versatile resource and one that can be enjoyed by the youngest of children within the Early Years Foundation Stage. To make the most of young children's experiences with gloop play, try the following activities.
Variations
- Start by placing gloop cornflower and water of different consistencies in three or four bowls. Invite the toddlers to explore, transfer, manipulate, lift and dribble the mixture. Respond to their efforts by describing the gloop and what the children are doing.
- Alongside the gloop bowls, provide small containers of items and liquids that the children can add to the mixture. There are lots of possibilities, but try to provide things that will change its: look, such as, shaving foam, glitter, paint and milkshake powder; smell, such as washing-up liquid, fabric conditioner, orange or lemon essence, orange, hot chocolate powder; texture, such as rice, pasta shapes, raisins, grated soap and lemon rind.
Artwork
Provide paper nearby and demonstrate how to dribble or place the gloop on to the paper. Experiment and describe what you are doing to the children, and encourage the children to follow your lead.
Utensils
Vary the utensils that you provide so that the children can move and manipulate the gloop in different ways. For example, provide spatulas, sieves, funnels and turkey basters.
Do it yourself
Provide resources for the children to make and play with their own gloop, by offering them jugs of water, jugs with cornflower in them and large washing-up bowls or low-sided trays.
CONSTRUCTION SETS
It's important that very young children are given opportunities to build and construct.
- Gather together a variety of construction materials in various sizes, colours and textures, such as sponges, Velcro rollers, Tupperware tubs, plant pots, cardboard boxes and cardboard tubes. Where possible, try to provide around 20 of each item.
- Place the materials in a large open area and encourage the toddlers to build with them, balance them and create rows, patterns and shapes.
- Work at first in partnership and invite a child to join in the building by saying, 'I need a little help' or 'I can't decide what to use next'. Eventually, allow the child to lead while you help and occasionally offer a suggestion.