Description
This activity introduces toddlers to magnetism by exploring which objects are attracted to a magnet. It encourages curiosity about material properties and develops fine motor skills through hands-on exploration.
Details
1. Gather a mix of small objects (e.g., paper clip, plastic toy, wooden bead, metal spoon).
2. Place the objects in a shallow tray or on a table.
3. Give the child a safe, child-friendly magnet (e.g., a wand magnet).
4. Let the child move the magnet near each object to see which ones stick.
5. Sort the objects into two piles: magnetic and non-magnetic.
6. Discuss why some objects were attracted to the magnet and others were not.
Materials
Child-friendly magnet, small objects (paper clip, plastic toy, wooden bead, metal spoon), shallow tray