One activity for example was Mud Dough. We used our Mother Goose Teacher's Guide, Planning Journal and Little Goose Teacher's Guide to plan this activity. First, we had a discussion about how they thought we could make mud. Then, we used the recipe card to make our Mud dough. Each child helped in the making in the dough. My children were 20 months to 10 years old for this activity. I let my 10 year old take the role as leader for this activity to learn about independence and leadership skills.
They took turns reading the recipe card and then measuring all the ingredients one by one and then following the recipe card. She told each child one step at a time so they can understand easier. Just in this part they engaged in oral communication, social interaction, math, and science. After, they were done making the dough we decided to play and make mud pies out of them. Each child used the dough and rocks to create their pie. Some made designs and others put rocks in according to their size.
After mud pies they were allowed to explore and play with the dough. It was so fun we made two batches. The older children decided to make a snake out of the dough. One asked me if we could make this everyday.
I'll be the first to admit I am not a fan of messy play personally for myself. But, sometimes you need to put your likes aside and think about the learning opportunities it provides for your children.
Thank you to Mother Goose Time for allowing me to receive all this wonderful product free. www.mothergoosetime.com