OK, so it’s kinda chilly here in my part of the world, so this activity might not be ideal for those in colder climates. But if you are simmering up in summer then this is an excellent way to keep your kids busy and cool! This is a sensory activity and is mostly focused at toddlers and pre-schoolers (little hands) and is also a great way to develop hand-eye coordination.
Ice is both cold and slippery, making it a perfect object for tiny fingers that are working on their pincer grip. The set up for this sensory play game is extremely easy, with just a little prep work required.
ICE MAZE
Preparing the ice activity:
- Using tape, make a maze on a flat surface, like a tray.
- Freeze ice cubes the night before, so that you have some ready for your setup.
The activity:
Encourage your little one to move the ice cubes along the maze
* Add some food colouring to the water when making the ice cubes, so that you can also do a bit of colour sorting with your tot. To add to the fun, you can let your kids combine ice cubes of different primary colours - watch them melt and see the colours change.
OTHER ICE ACTIVITIES:
Use medical gloves to make hand shaped icicles. We used these for counting and singing “Ten Little Fingers” while counting each of the fingers. My daughter also thoroughly enjoyed trying to put rubber bands over each finger like rings on a princess (more fine motor fun)!
A treasure hunt ice brick is also always real fun to have in the home (or classroom). Put a few safe and random objects (like toys) into a tub and fill it with water. Once a nice big ice block has formed you can turn it out easily onto a tray and watch as your toddler explores it while it melts.
These are just a few of the fun activities than can be administered by simply using water as the main ingredient! You can set up the games outdoors and enjoy a sunny day while cooling off with ice! To reiterate, these ice activities can help to develop:
- Fine motor skills
- Hand-eye coordination
- Sensory development
Have fun with your little ones!
