Thumbprint Fish Toddler Activity
Fingerpainting develops a child's sensory motor skills by allowing them to feel the paint and express themselves in another way than with a paint brush or crayon. It is specifically useful in working with young age groups because it requires less hand strength and control. Using paint and making thumbprints are a useful way to make creative crafts and activities. Toddlers will thrive on learning in this fashion because they will have fun while doing so! Make sure to consider other thumbprint crafts such as our Butterfly and Caterpillar thumbprint crafts and soon to be added, Chick thumbprint craft.
For this activity, you will need finger-paints, blue construction paper and a paint brush for this activity.
For small children, try not to be too picky, they may enjoy just making a mess as opposed to following any instructions. Chances are good that if you show them how to make a 'dot' with their thumb they will. You can then use the dots for the fish and whatever other art on the page as 'seaweed', 'water strokes', and other sea mysteries!
However, for those a little older a thumbprint makes an excellent fish body where all that is left is a triangle tail and eye. You can instruct them on making these shapes if they are capable, or finish them up yourself. Generally, toddlers over the age of 3 should be able to make the shapes required. If they are younger, as mentioned before, finish up their art once they are finished.
You can also add in other craft techniques such as glitter, stickers, and other crafting supplies to make it a complete under the water painting. See our activity, Aquarium for more ideas!
Your toddler will have a blast with this sensory motor skill activity. It is a perfect opportunity for you to talk about the letter F. You can also use it as you explore an underwater theme. Check out the underwater aquarium for more great ideas for a sea adventure week!
Do's and Don't of Juice
~Parenting Tip~
Many parents begin to give their child juice at 6 months old, but actually it is not necessary until they are older. You can prolong it as long as you desire, some do until around a year of age. Prolonging the introduction of juice will prevent tooth decay, obesity, and other nutrition issues.
*Wait at least until they are six months of age. Once your toddler is receiving juice, follow these guidelines to keep their nutrition in check!
* Dilute their juice, half juice and half water to keep the intake of sugars they are consuming down.
* Only choose juices that contain 100% juice and try to use those that contain less sugar. Read nutrition labels to make sure. Brands that are healthy include the V8's and those that do not contain extra sweeteners and artificial flavors.
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Alternate a glass of water and juice throughout the day, so your toddler does not get used to having only juice and milk. A good rule to follow is milk for breakfast and supper, juice/water combination for lunch, and water in between. By keeping to a schedule, you will be able to regulate the levels of sugar that your child is taking in.
* Don't give your child juice at bedtime, or out of a bottle. It allows the sugar to set on your teeth and will encourage plaque and tooth decay.
* If your toddler desires juice over water, try putting ice in the water. Sometimes a little coldness will make it more appealing!