Modifications and expansions to the play space over the past few
years have enabled me to have a wider variety of toys available at the
same time. Elimination of old, broken and seldom used items from the
storage area has also limited the number of items available to rotate in
and out of play. So, about a year ago that I decided it was time to
consider purchasing some new toys.
I started looking at some of the many daycare supply catalogues that I
have here. Every year I get more sent to me. Some of them end up as
craft supplies or loose parts for the children to ‘read’ and use in
their dramatic play activities. As the children peruse the catalogues I
take note of the items that interest them. I was intrigued that some
of the children pick out items that they want to ‘make’ rather than
‘buy’ – I do that too.
However, I know there are some new items that I do need to buy. I
made a rather long list of possible purchases then I put it aside for a
while. When I looked at it again I easily cut the list in half but it
was still a little long. Over spring break I printed the shortened list
– with pictures – and gave it to the children. I asked them for their
opinions. What items would they like best and why?
They were little help.
Not only did they not eliminate any of the items from the list
but now they are expecting the arrival of the new items. Every day they
arrive and ask if the new toys are here – I haven’t even placed the
order yet.
Sigh, it’s going to be a big, expensive order.
No comments:
Post a Comment