Social studies concepts for young children include learning about their world, money, and how things work. When creating maps for a bear hunt, children are using their literacy knowledge to write and draw on the map. Play money not only teaches children about the economy but also how to add and subtract numbers.
Going on a bear hunt map
Popsicle Puppets and Communication (will need to download the activity)
Pretend Play Store
- Set up a store in your home – allow your child to “earn” money to purchase toys and/or snacks – this teaches children that people earn money from working
- Have some higher priced items in the store – your child will have to save their money to purchase those items – this teaches children the concept of saving money for a highly sought-after item
- Have your child help complete your family grocery list – this teaches the idea of “scarcity” - that items run out or run low and we don’t have them anymore
Practice learning your address and phone number
Map your neighborhood
Go for a walk in your neighborhood and talk about what you see – when you return home, work to map out your neighborhood – this teaches map skills
Make self-portraits
This teaches everyone is different – make sure to include all characteristics of your child and yourself
