Mirrors are captivating for children of all ages, especially babies and toddlers. Reflections can be found in other places too - window glass, water, metallic surfaces.
A reflection occurs when light rays bounce off a reflective surface. Did you know that sound reflects too? An echo is a reflection of sound.
Reflections relate to both science and sensory education.
EYLF learning outcomes
The Early Years Learning Framework encourages children to apply their curiosity, imagination and creativity (4.1). Mirrors and reflections can also involve problem solving, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating (4.2).
Learning experiences
Play spot the reflection
Go on a reflection hunt! What surfaces can children see their reflection in? Test these ones out:
CDs and DVDs, crystals, digital screens, eyes, foil, glass, mirrors, metal, sunglasses, and water.
Be a mirror
One child pretends to look in a mirror. Another child pretends to be the mirror and copies the actions of the first child.
Draw a self portrait
Set up a table so each child can look into a mirror and draw their face as they see it in the reflection. Encourage children to draw shapes as they see them, rather than what they think they should look like. Suggest drawing small details that they can see, like feckless and hairs.
Make butterfly prints
Butterfly prints are pictures with a mirror image. Demonstrate how to put blobs of paint on a piece of paper and fold it in half so each half of the picture is identical. Does it look like a mirror?
Learning environments
Incorporate mirrors into your curriculum
Providing mirrors within early childhood play environments helps children become more self aware. They support preschool children's imaginative and artistic play and can be used in home corners, provocation tables, art studios, dance spaces, and as aesthetic decorations. Imagine having a mirror ball hanging from your ceiling!
Give mirrors to babies
Mirrors can be placed at floor height for babies who aren't mobile. They support the motor skills of pointing, reaching and grasping. Children can become aware of cause and effect as their reflection changes when they move.
Resources
Picture books
Through the Magic Mirror by Anthony Browne