[1]Take out a bubble wand and a jar of bubbles and blow and every kid (and grown-up) gets captivated. In this game, they can make all the bubbles they want with just a straw and some soapy water.
Fill a bowl halfway with water. Add two or three tablespoons of dish detergent and some food coloring. Place the bowl in the middle of a small table. If inside the house, put a plastic sheet over the table first to keep it from getting wet.
Directions
Have the children sit around the table so that they can all reach the bowl with the straw when they lean in. Give each child a straw to place in the bowl and have the children blow bubbles in the water. When a large amount of bubbles are on top of the water, place a sheet of white or color construction paper on top of the bubbles. The bubbles will pop on the paper making a beautiful circular design.
To prevent a child from sucking the bubble solution up the straw, poke a few small holes in the straw one-inch from the top.
Variations
- Use an eggbeater instead of straws and have each child take a turn using it.
- Use the paper to form cards that the children can draw or scribble on and give to parents.
- Scoop up some bubbles and place them on your chin to make a “beard”
- Scoop up some bubbles and place them on the table. Lightly blow on the top bubble and watch it expand
What is Being Learned
Children are learning breath control. The harder they blow, the more bubbles they will get. They see the consequences of actions when they make the bubbles and when they see what happens when the paper is placed on the bubbles.
They are all doing the same thing together. Being aware of this adds to the feeling of fun. Encourage this by saying “Everyone is making bubbles. Let’s all make even more!”
Modifications
For the child who cannot sustain an interest in blowing, have him help put the paper on top and see the results.
Barbara Sher M.A.,O.T.R, an occupational therapist and author of nine books on children’s games. Titles include EARLY INTERVENTION GAMES SPIRIT GAMES and EXTRAORDINARY PLAY WITH ORDINARY THINGS [2].
Game Ideas
- 10 Board Games for a Great Special Needs Game Night [4]
- A Round-Up of Educational Free Subscriptions, Storytime, Ebooks, And More [5]
- Brain Games for the Season [6]
- Infant Games Grows Brains [7]
- Social Games in Shallow Water [8]
- Got Pool Games? [9]
- 7 Sensory Games Dads Can Play With Their Children [10]
- What’s “APP”ening? Fun & Educational Game Apps for Children with Special Needs [11]