Getting started with magnet play

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VIEW THIS MESSAGE ONLINE Getting started with magnet play  Our preschoolers love playing with magnets! There is such magic and wonder in the way magnets work. And there are so many skills to be explored when playing with magnets. Children can learn about building and engineering. Children can explore the scientific method to determine what objects have magnetic properties and which do not. They learn about cause and effect while watching magnets attract or repel each other. Magnets can be a tool for building fine motor skills. And magnets can spark a lot of interesting conversations, promoting communication skills. Use your best judgement... One thing to keep in mind when introducing preschoolers to magnets, is that magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed. If your students have a tendency to put objects in their mouths, then do not use small button magnets. There are many preschool age appropriate magnet wands and horseshoe magnets available that pose no risk to swallowing. Creating a magnet center You can find some basic items around your house or classroom to add to your magnet play. Pipe cleaners, bag ties, screws, nuts, bolts, keys, and cans are all great additions to a magnet center. Small magnetic trays can also be purchased from hardware or farm supply stores. One of my favorite classroom DIY projects is our large multipurpose magnetic board. We attach velcro to the back so that our board can be hung from a bookcase or easily pulled off and laid on a tabletop. Read more! DIY Magnetic Board Are preschoolers interested in magnets? I hope you have a wonderful day! My best,  Deborah J. Stewart, M. Ed. www.teachpreschool.org

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