The children in Baby Room 2 have been fascinated by holes so we have used this as a focus for learning. We have provided lots of interesting resources and spaces for the children to explore posting, filling, and tipping, poking things through, rolling things down and positioning themselves.
We tend to forget how much babies learn in a short space of time that we take for granted. At around 3-4 months, babies develop the skill to grasp an object, they can build up this skill, by picking up resources, passing them from hand to hand and feel their texture and shape. It takes a while for them to develop the ability to let objects go deliberately, so when we notice children repeatedly dropping things, it is a stage in their continuous development.
Exploring holes enables the children’s grasp and release to become more controlled and precise. It is developing their fine motor skills, finger dexterity and strength in their arms, hand-eye co-ordination and cause and effect.
Our older babies have been enjoying posting things and discovering holes in the environment. We think they are wondering what can I do with this? Will this fit? Can I get it out again? Where does it go? Can I squeeze in here? What will happen if I do this? Does it happen if I do it again? Such amazing curiosity and wonderings!
