Aims:
Refinement of the stereognostic sense.
Material Description:
- Bag 1: Wooden cubes and square cuboids (10 to 12 of each)
- Bag 2: Three groups of small objects (4 to 5 of each) contrasting in three aspects (shape, size, and texture)
- Bag 3: Three groups of small objects (4 to 5 of each) contrasting in any two aspects
- Bag 4: Three groups of small objects (4 to 5 of each) contrasting in any one aspect
- A blindfold.
Activity Description:
The child is invited and instructed to bring the materials to the working area. Each object from one bag is felt, and the child is also invited to feel them. All items from the bag are removed and placed randomly. Headings are created by placing one object from each bag away from the others. The blindfold is put on, and each item is felt and placed under its respective heading. The blindfold is then removed, and visual confirmation is made. All the items are mixed together. The child is invited for their turn. The child is asked to work with other bags on subsequent days.
Suggested At-Home Activities:
- Mystery Box: Prepare several boxes or containers with different objects inside, such as small toys, household items, or natural objects. The child can reach into each box without looking and try to identify the objects solely by touch. They can then describe the objects based on their texture, shape, or size.
- Sensory Tray: Create a sensory tray filled with various materials such as rice, sand, dried beans, or fabric scraps. Hide small objects within the tray and have the child explore and find them using their sense of touch. They can try to identify the objects without looking.
- Object Sorting: Collect a variety of small objects with different shapes, sizes, and textures. Blindfold the child and provide different containers or bowls. The child can sort the objects solely by touch, placing them in the correct container based on their characteristics, such as smooth vs. rough or round vs. square.
- Sensory Scavenger Hunt: Create a sensory scavenger hunt by providing a list of different textures, shapes, or objects for the child to find and touch around the house or in a designated area. They can check off or describe the sensations and properties of each item they discover.
Remember to provide a safe and supervised environment during these activities, especially when working with small objects or unfamiliar textures. Adapt the activities based on the child's age and abilities for an enjoyable and educational experience.
