At Playful Learning, we believe that the physical environment plays a VERY powerful role in the behavior of children. The presentation of simple invitations can inspire children to engage in meaningful activities.
What we love about creating these invitations is that they are easy (you don’t have to tackle that scary closet) and you can use materials and activities that you already have on hand. It helps to think of these invitations as a way to highlight your child’s underused supplies, games or toys. It is amazing how putting together a few thoughtfully selected items on/in a tray, bin, or basket can reawaken a child’s interest.
And, here comes the best part, all you have to do is leave them out for your child to discover. You don’t have to say a thing!
Here are some of our favorite invitations:
Invitation to explore the backyard …
child-size binoculars | magnifying glass | collection jar | bug catcher
How Things Work In The Yard by Lisa Campbell Ernst
Invitation to discover a new art material…
slate chalkboard | blackboard chalk | eraser
Invitation to identify a collection of sea shells…
shell collection | magnifying glass | shell guide
Invitation to explore light and shadows…
Invitation to write a graphic novel…
blank comic book | comic template
Art Panels, BAM! Speech Bubbles, POW!: Writing Your Own Graphic Novel by Trisha Sue Speed Shaskan
Invitation to hunt for animal tracks…
animal track fundana | child-size binoculars | magnifying glass
Invitation to sculpt…