Torch Play is as simple but effective way to teach about light in the Early Years and explore the world in which we live. Torches are a great resource as they are easy to use but offer many learning opportunities. The TTS Colour Changing Easi-Torches are a torch with a difference! They come in their own docking station and have four different settings – blue, red, green and white. However the fun doesn’t end there! Why not encourage the children to explore by blending the beams of light to create various tones and colours.
Hints and tips for using torches in Torch Play!
Don’t throw away your fancy packaging!
Investigate colour with your children by providing a table of materials, for example, netting, sweet papers and tissue paper. Can they change the colour of the white light beam using the materials to do this? What happens when they project on white paper? Black? On newsprint? On their hand? What happens when they change their beam to a different colour such as red? What effect does this have?
Have you got a dark den in your classroom to discover colour and light?
If not, make one with a blanket over a table and cushions on the floor underneath. Make a label for the outside that says, “Secret Spy Reading.” Using a set of torches, let children into the den with their reading book, library book or favourite book to secretly spy read..no sounds should be heard!!
Sorting transparent, translucent and opaque materials
Provide a consistent background to project onto and the set of materials to be investigated, for example, some tin foil, clear plastic, coloured plastic, wood, water in a variety of containers, cotton towelling, cotton wool. The children should predict which of the three categories the materials should be placed in and then test their predictions using the torch. Not only can the children use the beams of light to explore the materials, they can also sort by using the different colours. Shine a green light on all the materials that can be recycled and red on those that can’t.
Combine shadows and language learning
Create a shadow of a well-known object onto a board, screen or a clear bit of wall. Can the children guess what object formed the shadow and name it? Why not challenge the children to create a shadow scene using multiple objects and colours? For example, can they create a giraffe using different objects such as stacked beakers for the neck? Can the other children guess what has been created and the materials used?
Make some sensory boxes
Collect some cardboard boxes and cut a small hole on one side just big enough for a small hand to get through. Place objects in the box and ask the children to feel inside the box and guess the object. Now, use the torch and peek inside – what can you see, were you correct?
Story Boxes – Creating mini theatres
Remove the lid or the side of a cardboard box to create a miniature theatre or diorama. Children can create the set of a well-known story, or one straight from their imagination, by adding small world resources and other objects. Once completed, they can control the stage lighting by changing the colour of the torch. They may even want to experiment mixing beams of light to create different coloured backdrops. This activity can be undertaken in a darkened environment or dark den. Alternatively, the children can set it up on a table and place a blanket over the top themselves and the box to create their very own mini theatre.
Easi-Torches are a set of 6 ultra-bright LED rechargeable torches that come in their very own wooden docking station. They are great for exploring light and shadows without the worry of replacing batteries or having a dim light. A perfect way of combining technology and science for early years children.
Written by Carol Allen and Claire Graham to provide insights and practical suggestions for practitioners to help you make the most of learning opportunities in your setting.
