Introducing preschoolers to the concept of harvest is a wonderful way to connect them with the natural world and the source of their food.
Harvest activities for preschoolers can range from hands-on experiences in a garden to crafts and games in the classroom.
These activities not only teach young children about the importance of growing and gathering food but also instill in them an appreciation for the effort it takes to bring food to their table.
Apple Picking:
Take preschoolers to a nearby apple orchard, and let them pick apples. This activity will not only teach them about harvesting but also help them improve their motor skills.
Corn Sensory Bin:
Create a sensory bin by filling a container with corn kernels. Add some scoops and tools, and let children explore and play.
Leaf Printing:
Collect leaves from the yard and use them to make prints.
Pumpkin Decorating:
Give preschoolers small pumpkins to decorate with paints or markers.
Nature Walk:
Take preschoolers on a nature walk and encourage them to collect leaves, acorns, and other natural objects.
Harvest Sensory Bin:
Fill a sensory bin with items like hay, corn, and small pumpkins. Children can explore and play with the items, promoting sensory development.
Harvest Collage:
Provide preschoolers with a variety of natural materials like leaves, acorns, and seeds to create a harvest-themed collage.
Harvest Scavenger Hunt:
Create a indoor scavenger hunt with harvest-themed items like pumpkins, apples, and corn. This activity promotes problem-solving and physical development.
Harvest Cooking:
Get preschoolers involved in cooking activities that use seasonal produce like pumpkins, apples, and squash. This activity promotes cooking skills and healthy eating habits.
Harvest Dramatic Play:
Set up a dramatic play area with items like fake vegetables, baskets, and crates. Children can pretend to harvest and sell their produce, promoting social development and imaginative play.
Harvest Counting:
Use seasonal produce like apples, pumpkins, and corn to teach preschoolers basic counting skills.
Harvest Storytime:
Read books about harvest season, such as “The Little Red Hen” or “Pumpkin Jack,” and discuss the themes of hard work and reaping what you sow.
Harvest Obstacle Course:
Set up an obstacle course using hay bales, pumpkins, and other harvest-themed items.
Harvest Songs and Rhymes:
Teach preschoolers harvest-themed songs and rhymes, such as “Five Little Pumpkins” or “Ten Red Apples.”
Harvest Math Activities:
Use harvest-themed items to teach preschoolers basic math skills like addition and subtraction.
Harvest Science Experiments:
Conduct simple science experiments using seasonal produce to teach preschoolers about the growth and harvesting of crops.
Harvest Art Projects:
Encourage preschoolers to create harvest-themed art projects using materials like paint, paper, and natural objects.
Harvest Dress-Up:
Provide dress-up items like overalls, hats, and bandanas, and let preschoolers pretend to be farmers or harvesters.
Harvest Circle Time:
Use circle time to discuss the themes of the harvest season and encourage preschoolers to share their own experiences with the season.
Harvest Food Tasting:
Provide a variety of seasonal produce for preschoolers to taste and explore different flavors and textures.
