Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Begin by showing the child the toy train set and explain that today you will be playing with trains. Encourage them to touch and explore the different parts of the train, such as the wheels and the tracks.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Set up the train track and place a train on it. Show the child how to push the train along the track gently. Use language such as “push” and “move forward” to describe what is happening.
Step 2Let the child explore pushing the train themselves. Encourage them to push the train forward and observe how it moves along the track. Ask questions like, “What sounds can you hear as the train moves along the track?”
Step 3Introduce some items that make train sounds, such as a whistle or bells. Demonstrate each sound and encourage the child to imitate them and then to make different sounds as it moves around the track.
Step 4After exploring the movement of the train and making various sounds, gather the items together. Ask the child questions about their experience, such as:
- “What was your favorite sound the train made?”
- “What other things can you think of that make sounds like a train?”
Step 5Explain that trains make sounds because of their wheels interacting with the tracks. Trains have a horn that blows as a warning to let people know it is leaving a station or passing through a railway crossing.
Showcase
Make
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.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Play
Set up simple hands-on experiments or demonstrations that promote repeated practice, discussion and ongoing investigation.
Encourage imaginative play using clothes, toys or props related to the concept and let them role-play scenarios that reinforce their understanding.
Create a sensory box filled with materials related to the topic and let them explore, touch, feel and manipulate the items freely.
Listen to the song “Morningtown Ride” and have the child participate in interactive play to engage with the sounds and imagery of a train journey. Use props and toys to mimic the sounds of a train, enhancing their understanding and enjoyment of the song.
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.