Playtrays.com is an absolutely fantastic online resource. They have so many great ideas for small world dramatic play that kids love!
All year, I have some version of a play tray available for kids' use during center time.
This year for our winter/habitats unit, I set up an arctic themed tray. It's awesome seeing kids use the vocabulary they've learned for an authentic purpose!
All the materials for this came from a Michaels Craft Store but could be easily found elsewhere. The animals are Safari Ltd brand.
What I used:
- Safari Ltd Polar Bear, Cub, Arctic Wolf & Eagle
- White sand (sold as vase filler)
- Transparent Blue and White Rocks (also sold as vase filler)
- Blue paper
This cost me a total of less than $20, and will be easy to throw into a ziploc when it's time to switch it out!
In this center, kids are working on the following Common Core Standards:
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.1
Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about kindergarten topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.6
Speak audibly and express thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.K.1
Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.K.4
Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on kindergarten reading and content.
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.K.5
With guidance and support from adults, explore word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
-Especially CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.K.5.C
Identify real-life connections between words and their use
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.K.6
Use words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading and being read to, and responding to texts.
Use words and phrases acquired through conversations, reading and being read to, and responding to texts.
