Studying Movement through Pipes

The toddler room has been engaging in a study of movement for the past few months. One of the many ways in which they have been exploring this idea is through the use of large and clear PVC piping, while using different tools such as balls, funnels and measuring utensils.

We have observed the children using the PVC pipes in many different ways. Some of the things we have noticed is that it invites participation, at one point or another all children have engaged in the different activities. It has also helped children to make and test hypotheses of the components of slope, sand and water, such as how can they make it go through the pipe or how can they drive their car through it. We have also seen it build on their imaginary play; they bring many different objects over to play with in the sensory table.

 The sand and water provides a soothing sensory experience for many children; they just enjoy the feeling of the sand and water between their fingers.  Just like all toddler’s activities it promotes social skills. We observed many different groups of children playing with one another during these activities, using language and gestures to communicate their feeling and ideas. The last thing we have observed is because how open-ended these activities have been children have determined the direction and path of his/her play.

New Mexico Early Learning Guidelines meet:

Toddler demonstrates curiosity, persistence, imagination and problem-solving skills in his/her everyday activities

Toddler manipulates objects and uses tools

Toddler inquires about the world and experiences the properties of things

Toddler conveys a message to another person

Toddler uses social skills with other children