A simple trip to the grocery store can include some kindergarten readiness fun and learning. Are you picking up some items for Valentine’s Day? Sometimes, those who are organized, take along a list. This gives kids the message that writing has meaning. Little eyes are often very good at finding things on shelves, so give your child something to look for. In the produce section, ask your child to “I Spy” things that are red. There’s peppers, tomatoes, apples, and maybe even red potatoes. Is there anything that is pink? That is much harder. In the other sections, are there other things that are red?
Learning colors is a complex thinking skill because there are variations for each color as well as so many objects that share a color. We don’t always even agree on them! In a grocery store, there is not really an opportunity to play, or is there? Some of the things in the basket may want to talk to each other. That’s great for imaginative play.
You may have walked by the answer to this riddle at the store: Q. What kind of flowers are not flowers? A. Cauliflowers! Your and your child will have used lots of words and language skills as you’ve been talking with each other. There’s been some social skill practice when waiting in line, helping, taking turns, and interacting politely. Back at home, muscles get some exercise when kids help put away the groceries.
Did including these few learning ideas take any extra time? Demand extra energy? Cost anything? Not at all, plus they gave your little one some extra brain practice for powerful thinking. And that’s good for parents and caregivers hearts, right?