1
Plant a fast-growing seed (beans work well). Each day, measure growth and draw what is observed. Discuss what plants need to grow: light, water, soil.
10 min/day over 2 weeks
2
Check the weather each morning for one week. Record temperature, sky conditions, and precipitation. At the end of the week, discuss weather patterns observed.
5-10 min/day over 5 days
3
Start with the three primary colors. Mix red and blue, then blue and yellow, then red and yellow. Name each result. Ask what other combinations the child wants to try.
20-30 min
4
Lay out letters for a CVC word (e.g. c-a-t). Guide the child to say each sound, then blend them together. Build three new words per session.
15-20 min
5
Hold up each sight word card for 3 seconds. Child reads it aloud. Make two piles: known and still-learning. Revisit the still-learning pile at the end.
10-15 min
6
Use two-color counters to explore how numbers can be split. For example, show that 5 = 3 + 2 and 5 = 4 + 1. Record each combination on a number bond diagram.
15-25 min
7
Jump on hopscotch squares while counting by 2s (2, 4, 6…). Repeat indoors using a number line. Time the child and try to beat their best time.
10-20 min
8
Give the child a clipboard and shape checklist. Walk around the house or classroom to find real-world examples of circles, squares, triangles, and rectangles.
15-25 min