30 Days to Transform Your Play series
Mirrors add another dimension to learning. They can be used in various ways to enhance play and learning.
Add them to the walls, (at the child’s level, behind a point of interest – toys, a project and/or in a specific area [i.e. the block area]) on the surface of play and smaller mirrors within their play and learning.
On a larger scale, mirrors open up a space and reflect light. Mirrors in displays and at the back of shelves help to create a feeling of light and space.
With regards to provocations (invitations to play and explore); mirrors add beauty as well as encouraging a depth of inquiry. The 3D aspect that mirrors emphasize help children to view objects and play in new and different ways.
I think the use of mirrors in the play and learning environments can support the child’s construction and exploration of their self-image.
Mirrors provide the opportunity for kids to explore:
- symmetry,
- reflection,
- perspective,
- angles,
- their own movement, and
- self-awareness.
Tasks:
- Add a mirror to a space or two where it could add light and openness (i.e. a darker corner in a play space),
- Next time you set up an activity, consider using a mirror as a surface or behind the set up,
- Consider incorporating mirrors in art explorations in the future, and
- Add hand-held mirrors to your nature tray/shelf if you have one.
————
Feel free to share your photos (no matter what day!) on Instagram with the hashtag #30daystyp and/or on my Facebook page.
Here is the rest of the 30 Days to Transform Your Play series!
Great ideas, I’m a toddler teacher and I’m trying to find safe mirrors to use in my classroom, where did you get your mirrors?
Thanks, jill
Where do you get all of your mirrors?
For a mirror rookie, how well do they hold up with sometimes rough kids? We have an extra of those inexpensive, framed long mirrors, but I’ve been nervous to use it. I don’t consider myself a helicopter mom, but broken glass doesn’t sound like much fun! Can kids put some weight on them without risk of breaking in your experience?
Just GPlus’d this post! Love all these inspirational mirror activities for the children! Thanks for sharing. On our way to the DollarStore to grab some cheap different sized mirrors!
What a wonderful idea. I never thought to play with mirrors. Such simple but fun play ideas :)
I hadn’t thought of this before. I’ll have to get some mirrors and try this out. Thanks!