I love geoboards. The material is a great addition to a Montessori classroom. The work develops the three finger grip, preparing the child for writing. There is also patterning, which helps develop mathematical thinking. There is even beginning science concepts with the stretching of the rubber bands. You can't go wrong with these boards! There versatility and adoration by children is a plus. This DIY Geoboard has all that to offer plus the outdoors!
{If you are not the DIY type or don't have the time, 1) don't feel bad and 2) there are several great reasonably priced options to buy. My favorite Geoboard
is by Learning Resources.
DIY Geoboard
DIY Geoboard Materials
- Hammer – I supplied a small hammer in the event my boys would want to hammer their own nails
- Nails – I used small nails but you can use a variety of sizes
- Rubber Bands – I used the bands from our Rainbow Loom
. They were perfect. Small and super elastic. Plus you can't beat the colors! - Block of wood – We used a stump in our yard!
. They were perfect. Small and super elastic. Plus you can't beat the colors!
DIY Geoboard Approach
The approach is straightforward. Hammer nails into the stump. I circled the stump and continued inward. Invite your children to the activity. Demonstrate how to wrap the elastic round a nail head and stretch it to another nail head. Show how you can make shapes and patterns, stretch near and far.
Geoboards are a fantastic at home or in the classroom material. Geoboards are easy to make and inexpensive to buy. So, it is a win, win.
Marnie
