This was invitation was done by one of our teachers and it was too good not to share. Anything that’s translucent will make for magic on any light table. This isn’t traditional block play because the items being used are out of the norm, which makes for a great STEM challenge. Translucent plastic cups, tubes, and ping pong balls are perfect for STEM exploration. Whether it is building, sorting, creating patterns, enhancing color recognition, fine motor + hand-eye coordination skills, creative thinking, endless possibilities are explored through this type play.
To set this invitation you will need a light table, translucent cups, tubes, small cups, and ping pong balls.
When children explore and create during STEM building, the natural progression of "block play" teaches them how to move & manipulate objects by using their fine motor control to “click” them into place. Building helps the child enhance their visual-spatial skills which is crucial for reading readiness. Encourages thinking & reasoning. These skills are what make children become well-rounded, independent & successful adults. Involves focus & patience. Children need to work slowly & carefully to be successful at creating their designs. Through building & creating, the child will learn to experiment & make new discoveries about how things work.
Light tables are an excellent resource for sensory input. Children are often calmed by the glow of the table & the visual stimulation enhances their experience as they explore to further enhance their play through an illuminating experience.
Here are other ways to explore light, color, & shadow play: Flashlight STEM Light & Shadow Play, Rainbows, STEM, and Cellophane.