Nancy Stewart

Can you feel what's in the toe?

PROPS NEEDED: Socks with an object in the toe (see variations below), enough for each child. I use only black socks, so they all look the same. Read through all the variations below, and use one that works for the ages of children you have. Younger children will do better with simple, recognizable objects, while older children will enjoy the challenge of trying to identify more unusual objects.

VARIATION 1: For the older twos and threes, limit the number of objects to a couple of simple ones, like blocks and small balls. Show the children the items that will be in the socks. Place all the socks in a box or tub, and walk around the circle as you sing, letting the children each take a sock as you pass. When the song ends, ask each child which of the objects you showed them is in his or her sock.

VARIATION 2: For 3's and 4's. Use more items, and make some of them unusual, but show them all of the items first. I have used such things as pine cones, clothes pins, and prescription bottles. As above, place the filled socks in a container and pass the container around the circle.

VARIATION 3: For 5–7 year olds: Fill the socks with the same items as above, and a couple of really unusual items. Look around your house or the classroom for small objects. I once used a small candle snuffer, and we had quite a conversation about what it was and how it was used in the "olden days." Same thing with a spool of thread. Instead of passing the container of socks around, give each child a sock, and instruct the children to keep passing the socks until the song ends. Then go around and have each child say what is in his or her sock. Passing with one hand while receiving with the other is challenging for some children, so you may want to practice first.

VARIATION 4: Use objects that relate specifically to the unit you are studying — shapes (different shaped items), nature (pine cones, rocks, small sticks, leaves, a baggie of sand), cleaning things (toothbrush, bar of soap, wash cloth, dental floss). Other ideas: glue stick, crayon, library card, large thick screw, small book, necklace. Use your imagination and things you have around you!