DIY Fidget Toys for Kindergarten Learners: A Fun and Educational Activity with Auntie Nats
- Natasha Francis-Campbell
- Feb 21
- 3 min read
Creating fidget toys for kindergarten learners can be a rewarding and educational experience. In this blog, we'll guide you through making a simple yet engaging fidget toy using water beads, colouring
agents, and a lubricant, all tied in a plastic bag. We'll also explore the benefits of these toys and provide safety tips to ensure a fun and safe playtime.
Why Fidget Toys?
Fidget toys have gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer numerous benefits for young learners, including:
Sensory Stimulation: Fidget toys provide tactile and visual stimulation, which can help children focus and stay engaged in learning activities. Water beads' squishy texture and vibrant colours can be particularly appealing to young senses.
Fine Motor Skills Development: Manipulating the water beads and the plastic bag can help improve fine motor skills. These skills are essential for tasks like writing, drawing, and buttoning clothes.
Stress Relief: Fidget toys can be calming and help reduce anxiety or stress. For children who need extra support, these toys can be a great tool to help them feel more at ease in the classroom.
Creativity and Imagination: The colourful and squishy nature of the water beads can inspire creativity and imaginative play. Children can use their imagination to create stories and scenarios while playing with their fidget toys.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Playing with the fidget toy can enhance hand-eye coordination, which is crucial for various daily activities and future learning tasks.
Materials Needed
To make your own fidget toy, you'll need the following materials:
Water beads (repurposed from a previous event)
Colouring agent (food colouring or non-toxic dye)
Lubricant (such as baby oil or glycerin)
Plastic bag (zip-top bags work best)
Step-by-Step Guide
Repurpose Water Beads: If you have water beads from a previous event, you can repurpose them for this activity. Make sure they are clean and free from any debris.
Prepare the Water Beads: If the water beads are dry, soak them in water according to the package instructions. Once they have absorbed the water and expanded, drain any excess water. If they are already hydrated, you can skip this step.
Add Coloring Agent: Place the water beads in the plastic bag. Add a few drops of your chosen colouring agent to the water beads. Seal the bag and gently mix the beads to evenly distribute the colour.
Add Lubricant: Add a small amount of lubricant to the coloured water beads. This will give the beads a smooth and slippery texture, making them more enjoyable to play with. Seal the bag again and mix well.
Seal in a Plastic Bag: Ensure the plastic bag is securely sealed to prevent any leaks or spills. Regularly check the bag for any signs of wear and tear.
Playtime: Your fidget toy is now ready for play! Encourage your kindergarten learners to explore the texture and colours of the water beads.
Safety Tips
While fidget toys can be a lot of fun, it's crucial to prioritise safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Supervision: Ensure children are supervised while playing with homemade fidget toys to prevent accidents.
Non-Toxic Materials: Ensure the water beads, colouring agents, and lubricant are non-toxic and safe for children.
Secure Sealing: Ensure the plastic bag is sealed to prevent leaks or spills. Regularly check the bag for any signs of wear and tear.
Age-Appropriate: Fidget toys are generally suitable for children aged 3 and above. Always consider the age and developmental stage of the child when introducing new toys.
Conclusion
Creating DIY fidget toys for kindergarten learners is a fun and educational activity that offers numerous benefits. From sensory stimulation to fine motor skills development, these toys can enhance learning and playtime. By following our step-by-step guide and safety tips, you can create an engaging and safe fidget toy that your young learners will love. Additionally, repurposing materials from previous events is a great way to promote sustainability and reduce waste.
Happy crafting and playing!
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