This trimester, we’ve been exploring the amazing ways our bodies work. Last week, we learned about the muscular and skeletal systems. This week, we’ll begin learning about the cardiovascular system and the important job that our heart has. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you’ll see lots of heart-themed fun woven into today’s suggested learning activities!
Snowy Heart Sensory Art
Materials Needed:
- Paper (white or construction paper)
- Paint (red, pink, white) or washable markers
- Cotton balls or sponges
- Glue
- Optional: salt, glitter, or shaving cream
Description:
Draw or trace a large heart on the paper. Have your child use cotton balls or sponges to dab paint inside the heart, pretending they’re making a “snowy heart.” For extra sensory fun, sprinkle salt or glitter on wet paint, or mix paint with shaving cream for puffy heart art.
Heart Word Match
Materials Needed:
- Paper or cardstock
- Marker
- Scissors
Description:
Cut out several paper hearts and cut each one in half like a puzzle. On one half, write a letter (uppercase or lowercase). On the matching half, write the corresponding letter, or draw a picture that starts with that letter (like H for Heart). Have your child match the heart halves together while naming letters and sounds.
Heart Counting Snowstorm
Materials Needed:
- Paper hearts (or draw hearts on paper)
- Small items for counting (beans, cereal, pom-poms, buttons)
- Marker
Description:
Write numbers (1–10, 1-20, whatever your child is ready for) on each heart. Have your child place the correct number of counting objects on each heart. You can pretend the items are “snowflakes falling onto hearts.” Encourage counting out loud and comparing which heart has more or fewer.