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The mirror box was super easy to make. I used three square acrylic mirrors that I purchased at the dollar store for either $1.50 or $2. I can't quite remember how much they were, but they were cheap. Then I followed The Imagination Tree's instructions.
Since snowflakes are the inspiration for this activity, it only made sense to set up the mirror box on the ledge by our front window so that J could see the snow out front while he played. I also set out a cup of cotton swabs. Most of the cotton swabs were full length, but I had also cut some in half.
J started placing some of the cotton swabs on the mirror box, watching how they would transform as he placed them in the mirror box.
J kept adding more and more cotton swabs to the mirror box, eventually realizing that he was making symmetrical snowflakes. He would stop every so often to count the number of points on his snowflakes too.
This activity was perfect for talking about reflections, symmetry, snowflakes, and so much more. J was also engaging his creativity, happily making any kind of designs he wanted. And then, of course, there was some shape identification and counting involved too.
Be sure to read the other science and math posts in the Light & Reflections Series. And then tune in next week for when we focus on literacy activities.
Experimenting with Ice, Colored Water, & Salt on the Light Table from Happily Ever Mom
Bubbling Color Mixing on the Light Table from Where Imagination Grows
I love that you set up the activity near the window. Seeing him looking out at the snow just brings it all together. I wish we had snow where we lived! This is so brilliant, Dyan. Pinning :-)
ReplyDeleteWell, you are welcome to come borrow some of our snow anytime you want ;)
DeleteAnd thanks for the lovely comments!
I need to check our dollar store for square mirrors so we can try this out! His snowflake is beautiful! :)
ReplyDeleteAwe thanks!
DeleteI think this is so clever. can't wait to try it.
ReplyDeleteThanks! Hope your kid(s) have fun!
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