Q. What did the pumpkin need for his boo-boo? Q. A pumpkin patch.
For most families Saturdays have a different feel than the other days of the week. They often have time to squeeze in a special event or activity. Given the season, what could be more fun than visiting a pumpkin patch?
Children are curious and adventurous and a pumpkin patch is an exciting place to explore. It’s also a great location for some readiness for kindergarten learning. Just think of all the language stimulation as the kids talk and discover. They will have lots of questions to ask and things to say. Their observation skills get plenty of exercise with so much to see. Walking, running, and carrying are great exercise for growing bodies. Some basic science concepts are that plants grow; dirt is needed for growing; and pumpkins look mostly the same but are different sizes. Pumpkins are not always orange, some have green patches, too. Fingers feel smooth parts, bumps, and rough stems.The best part is choosing a pumpkin to take home. How does your child choose a pumpkin? What’s important to children sometimes gives clues to their feelings.
This is just a small part of all the ways that a pumpkin patch visit can enhance kindergarten readiness. If there isn’t one near you, you may be able to take a trip in a book. What are your memories of going to a pumpkin patch?