Body Art
Need to incorporate a bit more science into you day? Here's an artistic way to teach your younger children about body parts and functions.
Obtain a large piece of craft or butcher paper for each child. Have the children lie down on their paper, in whatever pose they choose (as long as they are lying on backs and they fit on the page). Trace the outline of their bodies, or have them trace each other. This in itself is worth a barrel of laughs, because it always tickles!
Next have each child color himself onto the paper outline, complete with hair, facial features, and clothing. If possible, hang your children up on a wall or door (the paper ones, not the real ones).
During the days and/or weeks that follow, introduce major organs in the body, one by one. Include the brain, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, etc.
Explain the function of each part in the most creative and memorable way you can. Read books about them. Model them with clay. Have the children "act out" the function of the organ as a group (four kids could get together to make the four chambers of the heart). The more unique your idea the better!
Last of all, have them draw the organ you are discussing to scale and glue it onto their life-size self- portrait in the correct position.
This is an art-intensive science unit. You're kids will enjoy it and, believe me, they surely won't forget it!
The Human Body for Every Kid : Easy Activities that Make Learning Science Fun
Human Biology Activities Kit : Ready-to-Use Lessons and Worksheets for General Science and Health