Barley Measurement - Early Math Play Tub

Instead of a sensory tub and some messy play for the sake of purely playing and having fun. Dimples enjoyed this tactile exploration tub, learning about early math measurement as he played and explored. The concept of measurements and adding was explored through the use of measuring cups and he learnt that even though 2 cups may be different shape, colour and size they can still hold the same amount.

 I used a tub of Pearl Barley that was nearing date, it worked great for pouring and rattled around in the plastic tub. I put 2 x 1 cup scoops in the tub, a large measuring cup that held 2 1/2 cups, a smaller 1/2 cup scoop and a funnel.
First of all we checked all the cups by filling them up, reading what measurement they were and pouring them into the large cup to see if it measured the same. Dimples got the hang of it so I let him explore the materials. He filled all cups up and was quick to realise that they equalled the amount needed to fill the large measuring cup.

After doing some math play, measuring, pouring and experimenting with the different cups he played with the D.I.Y scoop & funnel I made from a soft drink bottle. I simply cut the end off on an angle, made it smooth and it worked perfectly with the pearl barley. He filled the large cup up 2 1/2 cups and poured it through the funnel lifting it high and watching it sift out. As all little scientists do, he explored how to block it, unblock it, use it on an angle, run his fingers under the trickle of barley and of course fill cups up until they overflowed.

I love activities like this.
If I get Dimples started on something and show him the basic concept I can then let him explore himself safely, learning and enjoying himself at the same time. Then I am free to go do the dishes, the clothes, feed baby Cherub or just sit for a moment in the sun shine watching the delight in his eyes.

Happy Adventures :)