Preview draft. Activities have not been tested with caregivers.
Nature · The activity desk
Penguin swim and waddle
Explore how penguins move on land and in water.
Let's play →
A little plan for play
Open interactive activity →Add to play journal →What you need
A clear floor and a picture of a penguin.
Age: 3–5 years; choose for the individual child.
Stay with the child throughout. Check the space and supplies, including anything within reach of younger siblings. Skip any activity that is unsuitable. Stop if a child puts non-food material in their mouth or becomes distressed. Use intact books, full sheets of paper, a large child-appropriate crayon and a clean, dry towel. Follow product labels; remove torn paper and keep broken crayons and caps away from children. Adult handles and stores supplies.
Set up: Choose a clear, dry space and look at the picture together.
Adult's role: Stay with the child and demonstrate gentle movements.
Let's make it happen
- Notice the penguin's flippers. Penguins are birds that use their wings as flippers to swim.
- Pretend to waddle a few steps, keeping your feet comfortable and your space clear.
- Stand still and gently move your arms like flippers, imagining the penguin swimming. Penguins do not fly in the air.
Make it simpler: Make the swimming and waddling motions while seated.
Clean up: Return the picture and clear the play space.
Move at a comfortable pace and stop if tired. Keep away from real water during this pretend game.