I am always trying to find ways to engage Nova at home. And since Sensory is my Jam I created this fun bin – Flower Arranging. The coolest part is it can be flexed in many ways. You can honestly find things right in your home that can make this fun or at your local dollar tree. All you need are some flowers, real or artificial. If you live by a grocery store check for times when theirs go on clearance, its the perfect bargain, and an added realistic touch. Plastic cups for vases if you don’t already have any and something for them to pour water out of, if you want to add that feature. It’s optional. Have a spare outfit near by though if you do, because anything with water Nova is bound to be soaked.
What You Need:
- Artificial or Real Flowers
- Small Plastic Vases or Tall Cups
- Small Watering Can
- Towel, Shower Curtain or Reusable Floor Covering
- Ikea FLISAT Activity Table w/ Bin inserts (Purchase Here)
- Children’s picture book about flowers, spring or gardens
How to set up Bin
Step 1: Protect your area by utilizing a thick towel, shower curtain or floor covering and place under the activity table.
Step 2: Gather your flowers, cut the stems low and separate so they are easier to pick up and assemble with.
Step 3: Fill Watering can or dispenser half way.
Step 4: Assemble Bin by placing flowers in a separate container, and empty vases or cups in another with watering can.
I demonstrated what the objective was but then allowed her to explore and make her own rules. Remember there is nothing to get right. The purpose is to allow the child to utilize their senses. Critical thinking. and imagination to learn through play. And all you have to do is supervise. It’s critical for us because Nova tends to put things in her mouth from time to time. We are working on it. Demonstrating and modeling. But as for the rest, she doesn’t require us to play. She can do that on her own. And less hands on means more opportunity for her to build her confidence and expand her mind.
