Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Start by gathering a few common kitchen appliances, such as a toaster, blender and microwave. Discuss each one with the child, focusing on its purpose and how it is used. Ask the child what they think makes these appliances safe to use. Highlight features like automatic shut-off, cool-touch surfaces and safety locks.
Step 2Ask the child to consider the following questions:
- What do you think would happen if these safety features were not included?
- Can you think of any other safety features that could be added to make them even safer?
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Provide the child with paper and coloured pencils. Ask them to think about what kind of kitchen appliance they would like to draw. It could be a new invention or an improvement on an existing one.
Step 2Encourage them to think about how their appliance will be used and who will use it. Discuss the importance of safety for all users.
Step 3Have the child draw their kitchen appliance. Ask them to include at least two safety features in their design. These could be features they have learned about or new ones they invent. As they draw, discuss each safety feature and how it helps keep users safe. For example, ‘Why did you choose to add a safety lock? How does it protect someone using your appliance?’
Step 4Once the drawing is complete, help the child label each part of their appliance, especially the safety features. Write down the names and purposes of these features.
Showcase
Make
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections. This may include filming each step of the flower-pressing process or the child explaining the parts of the flower that they have labelled on their flower-press diagram.
Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
Discuss
Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what the child has learned.
Choose a thought-provoking question or topic related to the activity and hold a family debate or discussion to explore different perspectives.
Sit down together to discuss the activity, allowing each family member to share their thoughts, discoveries and questions.
Have each family member prepare a short presentation about what they have learned, using visuals like drawings or props to illustrate key points.
Write
If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.
Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.
Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.
If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.
Plan
Brainstorm ideas for a follow-up activity or experiment inspired by what has been learned during the initial activity.
Take time to reflect on how the activity could inspire new goals, discussing ways to incorporate similar experiences into your routine in the future.
If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.
If you enjoyed the activity, why not share it with other families within your community? Plan a workshop or invite a friend over to re-create the experience and share your new knowledge.