This game was created by Aiden {my 2 year old}. All you need is a dump truck and some dominoes (or other objects to count).
Fill the dump truck with dominoes counting each one as you go.
How many dominoes will fit before the dump truck empties its load?
It really depends on how you place the dominoes. If we balanced it just right, we could stack the dominoes pretty high. It we just tossed the dominoes in, the dump truck emptied a lot sooner.
This game incorporates counting pretty easily, but you could also discuss the physics behind what is happening.
Questions to ask:
- Make a prediction: how many dominoes will fit before the truck tips over?
- Do you think the number of dominoes the dump truck can hold will be the same each time? Why or why not?
- Why does the number of dominoes the truck can hold change? What causes the change in number? What makes the difference?
- Why does the dump truck empty the dominoes? Why does the dump truck bed tip over? Why do the dominoes fall out?
This simple exploration will get your little ones to start thinking about the physics in the world around them. Practicing science skills when young helps establish a foundation for future science learning. Observe and experience the world around you – that’s what science is all about!
What science skills have you practiced lately?
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I love kid-created games like this! Great dominoes, too!
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What a great way to work on counting! I love your questions!
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Thanks! I try to add in a little learning whenever it seems to fit in with the fun we’re having.
that’s so cute! we have that same dumptruck! i love using items that Bear is already interested in! great child-led activity!
Too funny! I have no idea where we go it – from Gram probably. My favorite activities are child-led!
Found you from your linky post at Science Sparks. I’m loving your activities here. Using the moment, then being ready with GREAT questions. This is exactly what we need to foster in our children. Getting them to think, and answer questions, not trying to “get the right answer” but to test the idea and see what happens! Great post!
Thanks so much, Darci! I think asking questions, making observations, and exploring are so important.