Since the boys and I are heading out to Ladybugs Alive, a local sunflower maze tomorrow; I thought it would be fun to learn about sunflowers. The Sunflower Seed Counting activity was perfect for getting us ready for our trip to the sunflower maze. It’s a huge bonus that the activity provided environmental science information as well as works on mathematics as well. Playful math activities are my favorite because it offers a fun way to practice number recognition and counting. It’s a added bonus that this activity also works on fine motor skills and sensory integration.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

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SUNFLOWER SEED COUNTING ACTIVITY

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1. The first step is to share information with your kids about sunflowers. I focused on sharing about the different parts of the sunflower and how they grow. This can be done by reading books (From Seed to Sunflower & Sunflower House), watching videos (How Do Sun Flowers Grow) or looking a educational diagram of a sunflower.
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2. Invite your child to create the different parts of the sunflower using play dough. Encourage them to use different colors and include different parts such as the roots, stem, leaves and peddles.
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3. Next, is where the playful math begins. You can either have your little one add sunflower seeds to the flower and count them together. Or you can add a challenge by having them roll a set of dice and adding how many dots they roll.
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4. Now you are ready to visit the Sunflower Maze!!!  I highly recommend going to Lady Bugs Alive in Chaptico, Maryland. There’s no better way to learn than through play. If you get the opportunity to go, here is a coupon and guide!
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***The Playful Parent is a non-profiting organization that advocates learning through play. The Playful Parent doesn’t accept payment or advertise company’s. Homemade Monday activities were created to help encourage the sites mission. All information provided is my own non-bias opinion. ***