Mud Kitchen

What is our theme? 
Technology (STEM), sensory

What is the lesson (overall purpose)?  
Provide a mud kitchen for your child/children to play and explore using both their senses and a variety of tools. 

MA Guidelines/Standards:
APL 1: The child will demonstrate initiative, self-direction, and independence.
APL 2: The child will demonstrate eagerness and curiosity as a learner.
PreK-LS1-3 (MA). Use their five senses in their exploration and play to gather information.


Learning Outcomes:

• Students will observe a simple transformation of natural materials. 
• Students will show initiative, curiosity, creativity and imagination. 
• Students will engage their senses while they explore natural materials.
• Students will practice important technology task skills:  scooping, pouring, sorting, rolling, lifting, etc. 
• Students will participate in dramatic play.

Songs, Books & Videos (Motivational Techniques)
Listen to the book read aloud “Mud Pie Annie” by Dana Shafer and Sue Buchanan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5N2LahDuNwc

Materials 

• Something to watch book read aloud
• Dirt and water! Mix in a bowl. As much or as little as you’d like. Show your kids this process to make mud.

(THE REST ARE OPTIONAL)

• Pots and pans

(that you don’t mind getting dirty or borrowed for a period of time)

• Mixing spoons
• Spatulas
• whisks
• Measuring cups
• Straining tools 
• bowls/plates
• Cupcake pan
• Twigs/sticks
• grass 
• acorns
• pinecones

Activity (Procedure):
Before activity: Set up your “Mud Kitchen” area with chosen materials. 
I recommend a good, safe spot outside that requires easy clean up. 

• When kitchen is ready, allow your child to listen to the book read aloud, “Mud Pie Annie.” 
• Tell your child they will be able to make mud pies and other mud food too!
• Make mud with your child

Activity Wrap Up: 

Ask your child to show you things they made! How did they make it? 

How do I know what my child is learning? (Assessment)

• Is my child engaged in pretend play?
• Does my child understand that mud is a mixture of water and dirt?
• Is my child practicing skills of technology? 

How can you extend this activity? (Modifications)
Ask your child to help clean up! 

• Scrape out mud into good spot in garden/yard.
• Bring tools to the kitchen sink. 
• Allow them to help you rinse off the dirty tools! 

Helpful Hints: (Pitfalls & Solutions)

Have mud ready for your child if this is easier!

​