This activity is an entertainment center for my kids while I work with one in the other room. I have three locks and three keys. If they grade the locks according to size and grade the keys the same way, the locks will open.
This is one of the most expensive centers if you don’t have unused locks lying around the house. If you must buy them, like I did, get identical looking locks and the prettiest ones you can stand to buy. The more attractive an activity, the more likely the kids will gravitate to it.
This activity works on gross motor, fine motor, grading (math skill), orderly problem solving, and teaches a practical skill.It’s one of Little’s favorite. And anything that sneaks in those foundational math skills is fine with me.
Materials Needed: three or more identical key locks, Dollar Tree tray, construction or foam liner for tray.
How to:
1. Call child over and tell him you have something to show him.
2. Pick up each lock and examine it, placing it in order of size on the tray.
3. Do the same with the keys.
4. Try the keys in the corresponding locks and see if they open.
5. Remove keys, close locks, and mix them up on the tray.