We visited the amazing Natural History Museum in Brewster, Massachusetts last week. Among the number of wonderful exhibits and learning activities they offer children and adults was a Whale Eating Krill Sensory Tub. Very neat idea integrating fun fine motor skill development, science and, well, a whole lot of water sensory fun! Both my 3 and 1.5 year old enjoyed the tub.
Here is what you need:
- A tub filled halfway with water
- Tongs of various sizes to capture fish and whales
- Fish figurines
- Whale figurines
- Parsley or Thyme to serve as Krill and doubles as a lovely olfactory experience too
- A comb to simulate the whale's teeth/mouth scooping up krill
- A mat, tarp or shower curtain to lay underneath the tub if you cannot do this activity outside
Additional resources & tips:
- Take the comb and rake up the herbs floating around the tub. Explain to the child what the herb and the comb represents.
- Encourage use of various sized tongs to stimulate fine motor development with challenge
- I found this great Krill printout. You should check it out.
- What do Whales Eat? I discovered this information loaded website. A good resource for tricky whale questions!
- National Geographic is a not to be missed site for wonderful images and loads of information
Thank you for reading this post today!
Marnie