Dive into an exciting activity designed just for early learners (ages 4-8) Imagine a Playground with iPads using the Freeform app. In this activity students will imagine and draw their ultimate playground: swings, slides, jungle gyms, and more! They can even take it a step further and capture their ideas with screen recordings to share their vision. This fun and educational activity boosts creativity, critical thinking, and digital skills, while also promoting fine motor skills. Get ready to unleash their imagination and create something amazing—their very own playground masterpiece!
Step 1: Classroom Conversation
How can we make the playground better? Imagine if you could add something to your playground. Look at examples of existing playgrounds to get ideas. What does the playground need? What would you want to have in the playground?
Step 2: Have students select their playground components
Have students pick two items that they want in their playground. Encourage them to think big! Incorporate slides, monkey bars, jungle gyms and more! The possibilities are endless! Encourage students to consider accessibility to make their playground a place where all kids can have fun!
Step 3: Students create their ideas in Freeform
In a new Freeform canvas, have students draw pictures of their choices. Freeform is very user friendly, and students can simply tap the pen at the top of the canvas to access all of the drawing tools. Encourage them to explore different ones. The pen tool is recommended for this project because it creates smooth, clean lines. View more information on Freeform.
Step 4: Add images to showcase more playground inspiration
Students can add photos of similar playgrounds and ideas around the outside of the sketches to provide more insight into their thoughts. This can also help them feel more confident with their overall project.
Step 5: Screen record and share!
Have students use the screen recorder to tell about their playground idea. Be sure to turn on the microphone before beginning to record.
Community Connection:
Visit a local park for inspiration. You could ask community members for input or have them view complete projects and offer feedback for improvement.
STEAM for Little Learners • A collection of activities
"STEAM for Little Learners" equips educators with engaging STEAM activities designed to integrate technology and the design process into early childhood education, primarily students in 4K through second grade. This activity is part of a comprehensive guide emphasizes using iPads effectively to enhance learning, promoting critical thinking, creativity, and inclusivity. It also encourages community connections and provides valuable Apple resources for implementing STEAM education, ensuring a dynamic learning experience for all young learners. You can find a PDF of the entire set of activities attached to this post.
Learn more about this project.
Attach up to 5 files which will be available for other members to download.