Metal is an interesting material. It is shiny, stretchy and can even conduct electricity! Some rocks found in the Earth's crust can have metal extracted from them. These are natural materials called ores. Metal in its final state is a processed material.
Early childhood education environments are required to provide resources made from a wide range of materials, including metal. Children may ask questions about metal, where it comes from, and what it does.
EYLF learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework supports children connecting with materials (4.4) that teach respect for the environment (2.4) and provoke curiosity, imagination, creativity (4.1), problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating (4.2).
Learning experiences
Play with magnets
Provide children with magnets and a variety of materials to test them with. Try magnetic toys and ask children to donate their old fridge magnets at home. Read about Magnets on National Geographic.
Stimulate your senses
- Clang and bang metal pots, pans and spoons together.
- Jingle keys to make noise and tickle your skin.
- Look at your reflection in various metal objects.
Use metal tools
- Introduce preschool children to metal tools like hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers. Demonstrate how to use them safely.
- Use forks and other metal tools to create art. Use them as paintbrushes or scratch patterns into clay or paint.
Learning environments
Play with metal cooking equipment
Add metal cooking equipment, like saucepans and frying pans, to your home corner or sandpit. Unfortunately, many children play with toy cooking sets made from plastic. Metal is an amazing material and old items can be donated by families or purchased cheaply from a second-hand store.
Resources
Picture books
The Tin Forest by Helen Ward