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Magnet Busy Jar 

STEM Lesson Plans

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Lesson plan developed by Aurora Tollestrup, BS Ed

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Activity:  

Magnet Busy Jar

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Age Group:

• ​​Toddler

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Objectives:  

Children will:

• discover and explore magnets.

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CDA Competency Standard:

II.5.1a

Activities encourage curiosity, exploration and discovery
a) Activities involve developmentally appropriate, hands-on experiences

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Materials: 

• large plastic jar with lid
• pieces of cut pipe cleaners
• paperclips
• large magnet

**Be sure to use a child-friendly magnet which is not a choking hazard**

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Procedure: 

• Pour the materials into the jar and secure the lid with glue.
• Invite children to use the magnet along the outside of the jar to pick up the paper clips and move them around.

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Assessment: 

Observe and record the children’s experience with the materials. Did the toddler understand that the magnet was attracted to metal? How could you tell?

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Sensory Lesson Plans

Toddler Lesson Plans

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Washington STARS Training Online

Click on the course icon for enrollment information.

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Online CEU Courses

Click on the course icon for enrollment information.

CDA Training * 120 Hours of Training Toward the National CDA Credential $399.00

Children's Temperament $10.50

Use of Puppetry and Plays $31.50

Teaching Science to Young Children $10.50

Infant and Toddler: Health and Safety $21.00

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Supporting STEM Play for Infants and Toddlers

There are many ways to support STEM play for infants and toddlers.  Your program may already be supporting STEM related play without intention. Common elements of many infant and toddler classrooms are already geared toward supporting STEM instruction, but there are some additions that can be made to benefit the children in your care.

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Some ways to support STEM play:

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Ask Questions 
​Ask questions to extend the play and exploration. ​Even If the child does not have the linguistic skills to communicate the answers you should ask questions to further their play.

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Provide Ample Time 
Provide ample time for infants and toddlers to explore the materials and activities.

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Join In
Join in the exploration and play with STEM materials and STEM concepts. Get down on the floor and roll a ball, scoop the sand into the sifter alongside the children, etc.

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Make Connections 
​Connect new knowledge with previous knowledge by discussing and exploring.

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​Problem Solve
STEM isn’t just an acronym, it’s also a way of thinking and problem solving creatively and collaboratively.

Bright Minds: STEM Play for Infants and Toddlers