Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Begin by discussing bicycles with the child. Show pictures or real bicycles if available. Talk about the different parts of a bicycle and what each part does. Use simple language and encourage the child to repeat the names of the parts after you.
Step 2Ask the child to imagine drawing their own bicycle. Discuss what color it might be and where the wheels, handlebars, seat, pedals, brakes, and frame will go. Let them describe or draw their ideas freely.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Provide the child with a sheet of paper and drawing materials. Encourage them to draw their bicycle. Offer assistance as needed with shapes and lines, but let them be creative in their design.
Step 2If using pre-made labels, show the child how to cut them out carefully. Help them read each label and identify which part of their drawing it corresponds to. If making labels together, write the names of each bicycle part on sticky notes or small pieces of paper.
Step 3Guide the child to carefully place each label next to the correct part of their drawing. Explain again what each part does as they stick the labels on.
Step 4Once the labels are all applied, review the completed drawing with the child. Point to each labeled part and ask questions like:
- “Can you show me where the pedals are?”
- “What do you use the brakes for?”
- “How does the seat help you when you ride?”
Step 5Discuss the importance of each part in making the bicycle work properly. Encourage the child to explain the function of each bike part in their own words.
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involving sharing their insights and reflections.
Compile photos, drawings, and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what was 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.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Discuss
Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what they 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 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
As a family plan a bike ride you can undertake on a weekend to a local park, cafe, or to visit family or friends. Take some photos of sights along the way that could be added to the drawing or scrapbook.
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.