This Fall I had the opportunity to present with my dear friend, Dr. Joy Voss, about Playful Invitations at the National Association for the Education of Young Children conference. This extraordinary opportunity brought me closer to educators from across the globe to talk about my passion for early math. What I realized was my love of math was shared by many others and the response to using natural materials is overwhelmingly positive.
I am reinvigorated and excited to share new ideas you can use with children at home or in your classroom.
One idea I’ve used again and again is a Nature Face provocation.
Materials: Assortment of Natural Materials, Oval or Circle, and a Mirror.
When these materials were presented to children and adults, many looked into the mirror and and quickly began creating faces. However some required guidance through questions and comments. If you look in the mirror what do you see? Can you show me using the materials? I wonder if these could be eyes?
As participants play, an opportunity arises to count, talk about symmetry, and notice the shape and sizes of faces. Rich conversation unfolds as you talk about the math found in faces.
Reflect on the experience and consider ways to extend the experience. Bring paper and markers outside and ask children to draw their creation. Ask participants to create a new face using different materials. Can they show emotions with the materials? Can they tell a story about the face?
