Exploring measuring tools in preschool

Part of learning how to use a measuring tool is to first be given the opportunity to explore the use of measuring tools through their play.

In one of our most recent activity boxes, the children found a set of measuring tools, a measuring chart, and some items and pictures to measure. The measuring box was set out on a table and I had the opportunity to observe some of the children who were exploring the tools…

The tape measure was the most popular item of all the measuring tools. This tape measure was easy for the children to use as it could be pulled out without snapping back unless the children pushed in on a button at the bottom and then it slid back slowly rather than snapping back quickly. It did take a little coaching to help the children understand how to push the button at the bottom of the tape measure…

After the children played for a bit with the measuring tools, I found an opportunity to show some of the children how to count the numbers on the tape measure so we would know how many inches we were measuring…

We talked about the word “inch” and we counted the numbers on the measuring tools. We also talked about which items measured longer and which items were shorter.

Also included in the activity box were a set of cards – they were simply a set of pictures printed from the internet onto paper then laminated. Each photo was of something the children could find in the classroom to measure…

One of the cards was a photo of a chair. It was interesting watching this little boy try to figure out how to measure the chair.

This little boy wasn’t sure which way to measure the chair so he asked me what I thought he should do. I suggested several paths to measure and he decided to go with measuring from the floor to the top of the chair…

With all of our activity boxes, we simply set them out for the children to explore. At times though, I find that a little guided instruction is also helpful. I don’t want to interfere with their natural curiosity but I want to expand their understanding as they play when the opportunity is offered up. By pointing out the numbers on the measuring tools and how each number is an inch – I saw more of the children stop and count during their play. I overheard the children use the word “inch” as well.

What I love about this and most of our activity boxes is how the play is purposeful play. The children love exploring the tools and they are learning as they explore. As the children play, I find opportunities to bring in new understanding and vocabulary without boring the children. I watch their play and wait to see when they are ready for added information to extend their play into a level of higher understanding. I am in no hurry to extend their understanding – I want the children to stay interested in what they are doing and pushing for something they are not interested in doing only makes them lose interest in the activity. So I let the children lead and look for teachable moments along the way.

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Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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