Frozen worms threaded through a hook. My face scrunches up. Fishing. This was exciting. I sat and waited for the fish. The line started to twitch. What do I do now?! A kind uncle comes over and shows me how to bring the fish in. How exciting! I have caught a fish! Yay! Then I see the fish; and the hook through its’ mouth. My heart drops and my voice yells, “Quick! Throw it back in! Throw it back in!”.

We are yet to bring our children to their first fishing trip. If this play experience is anything to go by, I think they will be more determined than their mother to have some nice fish for dinner.

Materials

Large tub of water (we used our old baby bath)
Water beads
Small sieve with handle
Towels to line the immediate play area if playing indoors

How We Played

When water beads are placed in water they are very hard to see.

Swish, swish, swish. Time to scoop and catch some water beads.

Using a scoop is a fine motor skill that is easily incorporated into many types of daily play. It’s great for using both hands together; and building up the strength and stability of hands, fingers, shoulders, elbows and wrists.

Water beads are as slippery as fish and E managed to grab  some with his bare hands.

Now what does a tot do with something as squishy as water beads? Squish them of course.

 Yes, if this play experience is anything to go by, I think we’ll have some nice fish for dinner.

E: 1 year, 11 months
May 2012

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About the author

Pauline Pauline & Lessons Learnt Journal is all about life with kids. Pauline is an Aussie mum and teacher who shares her love for play, math games, writing and reading activities. She believes that #playmatters, values curiosity & wonder, wisdom, obedience and respect. She also needs naps. When not blogging, she may be found virtually hoarding on Pinterest, trying to decide which Instagram filter to apply, or compulsively refreshing her Facebook feed.