Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Begin by discussing different types of shapes with your child, including geometric shapes (e.g. circles, squares, triangles) and organic shapes (e.g. irregular shapes created by leaves and flowers). Show examples of both geometric and organic shapes using pictures or real-life objects.
Step 2Ask your child whether they’d like to join you on a shape hunt. Explain that it will involve looking for various shapes in the garden like a shape detective!
Step 3 (optional)Print a copy of the ‘Shape Scavenger Hunt Worksheet‘ and explain how to fill it out using the instructions provided on the sheet.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Take your child on a walk around the garden or nearby outdoor area. Encourage them to observe their surroundings closely, looking for shapes in nature such as leaves, flowers, rocks and clouds.
Step 2As they identify different objects, have the child draw what they see on their ‘Shape Scavenger Hunt Worksheet’. You could also draw on a path using chalk or in the dirt or at the beach using a stick to create shapes.
Step 3Prompt the child to identify whether the shapes they find are geometric or organic, as well as if they are naturally occuring or human made. For example, think about tree ring circles or a spider’s web as organic shapes. Ask the child to explain their reasoning.
Step 4 (optional)If using the worksheet, have the child draw what they see in the first column, then fill in the other columns using ticks.
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved 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 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 some basic recipes that involve the use of cutting tools e.g. cookies, pastries or pizza. Decide on a suitable recipe you can make with the help of the child and discuss which cutting tools you will need to help you make it.
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.