Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/writing-around-the-room-playing-with-sand-water-and-print/5024980/
While the idea of books and writing materials may seem out of place in the sand and water center, they can be just as beneficial in sensory play as in other classroom centers. Embedding such materials within play settings develops young children’s literacy skills by increasing their use of literacy materials and their engagement in literacy acts (Saracho & Spodek, 2004), and having your sand and water center outside does not diminish its potential for promoting literacy learning. The ideas presented here work inside or out.
Providing a Print-Rich
Environment
Print can be easily incorporated into sand and water play using these ideas:
Provide functional print such as center signs and posted rules.
Label materials and props with pictures and words.
Provide rebus directions and waiting lists to encourage reading and writing for relevant purposes.
Include authentic, print-related props such as measuring cups and spoons identified with words.
Display center specific vocabulary, such as colander, funnel, sift, sieve, float and buoyancy on a word wall.
Move traffic signs from the block center to the sand to increase environmental print.
Help children find answers to their questions about the properties of sand and water through books, websites ...