Exploring magnets makes an awesome discovery table. These are simple low tables set up with a theme to explore. Usually the materials laid out are meant for as much independent discovery and exploration as possible. Magnets are fascinating science and kids love to play with them! Simple science experiments and STEM activities for kids make great play ideas too.
Exploring Magnets Discovery Table
I have been trying to give Liam the opportunty to make discoveries for himself without becoming frustrated or disinterested by activities that are too difficult. As his interests and skills increase so will the level of play chosen for the table. Each table is only available for as long as he is interested!
Simple exploring magnets preschool discovery table?
MAGNET SENSORY BIN
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A simple sensory bin filled with colored rice, magnetic objects (2nd hand magnet kit), and a magnetic wand for finding all the treasures. I gave him a bucket to fill! Pipe cleaners and paper clips are easy additions!
MAGNETIC CONTAINER
I took a simple plastic container and filled it with cut up pipe cleaner pieces. See how you can move them around with the wand? Can you pull one up to the top from outside the container?
WHAT’S MAGNETIC AND WHAT’S NOT
This is a simple tray to make observations about what is magnetic with common objects around the house. Great for discussion on why or why not something is magnetic.
MAGNETS AND WATER
Fill a tall vase with water and add a paper clip to it. Use the magnetic wand to pull it out of the water. He thought this was so cool. Maybe his favorite!
He enjoyed using the bar magnet to test the objects and was excited to show me what was magnetic or to tell me what didn’t stick. I started noticing the bar magnet stuck around the house as well. He also used the wand to explore the bin quite a bit, seeing how much he could pick up with it at one time!
A few days later I made this magnetic fishing game by simply cutting out fish and placing a paper clip on each one. He used a pretend fishing rod from a puzzle to go fishing (check this post for how we played the game). I also included magnetic discs for him to pick up.
Set Up Your Own Table for Exploring Magnets for Kids
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so much fun!! Magnets have been on a to buy list forever. I really need to get teh kids some. What a fun idea:) if you find time come share it with us here and i can pin it to our group board! https://plus.google.com/u/0/communities/108181600162587759641
littlebins says
Thanks Jaime I did! I really lucked out with a huge 2nd hand magnet set! However, I think it will last us a long time even if I had bought it new.
Beth says
What a fun way to explore with magnets!!
Thanks for linking up to TGIF! Have a great week,
Beth =)
Carrie says
Fun explorations! Thank you for sharing at Sharing Saturday!!