Sand and water play can be made even more interesting by introducing a theme like creating an ocean floor. Invite the children to imagine an ocean floor and to think of some items they might find there. Encourage them to think of both natural and unnatural items they might find and encourage their budding imaginations by allowing them to add objects that they wouldn't likely find on an ocean floor, such as a horse or a car.

Ocean Objects

The kinds of materials that you provide for preschool children to create an ocean floor at the sand and water table are limited only by their imagination and your budget. Some ideas of sand and water toys for creating an ocean floor are sea shells, pretty rocks or minerals, toy fish or plants, a treasure chest, a sunken ship, tiny divers and toy boats.

This may be a good opportunity to talk about all the different creatures that live in the ocean from the giant whales to the tiniest crabs and shrimp. You could also start a conversation about the food chain or about the importance of keeping pollution out of the ocean.

Sand and Water Play

Once the objects are added to sand and water table, children can arrange them into different scenes, creating imaginary worlds below the surface of the water. Moving objects and fish through the water provides an opportunity to act out a story, to role play, and to engage in fantasy with their friends. They can make individual ocean floor worlds or one big ocean floor that they create together.

Sensory Effects

The sound of waves lapping against the shore is probably one of the most satisfying sounds of nature. Children at the sand and water table can mimic this sound by making miniature waves, splashing water, creating a shore with extra sand, and even building tiny sand castles to knock down with the waves. You could also set out large seashells and have them listen to the ocean within the shell. The feeling of water, shells, and wet sand running through fingers often has a soothing effect on young children.

Another way for children to use their sense of touch at the sand and water table is by searching the sand for hidden objects. You can hide small rings or stones or some type of treasure that they can find and take home with them.

The sand and water table is a place for dynamic exploration and activity. An ocean floor theme provides a delightful sensory experience for preschool children. They will enjoy finding hidden objects and creating an imaginary ocean world while developing their motor skills. This sand and water activity can also help preschool children identify ocean life, as well as benefit from the soothing properties of sand and water.

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