October: Pumpkin Theme

For October I chose the theme of pumpkins (of course), orange, and triangle. I felt that these three items flow well together. Orange and pumpkins are obvious, I chose triangle because it can been seen through Jack O'Lanterns and scarecrows' faces. I thought this would be a good shape to incorporate since we have already worked on circle. The triangle, orange and pumpkin flow and will repeat over and over easily through the monthly unit.

I have broken my plans into the same three groups; Literature/Music, Crafts/Games, and Dramatic Play. The activities are not ordered and do not need to be completed in any particular order. Just watch your child's mood and your time availabilities for the day and pick the activity that works! Some activities should be repeated multiple time and sometimes even daily to reiterate the skill.

October: Pumpkin Theme Plans
This document includes the games, crafts, as well as book titles and song lyrics. Remember not to have too much planned for one day. You do not want to burn yourself out or get frustrated if things are not going as planned. Remember this is Structured Play! Take time to put the supplies together before you begin because some day he/she might surprise you and be ready for more. If you have activities ready to go you will have a great learning experience. Do not forget that this time is to remain fun, when things get frustrating (for you or him) please stop for the day and come back at it later. You always want to walk away while it is still fun and exciting, that will help your child to want to come back day after day.

October: Pumpkin Theme Resources
The resources page includes the coloring pages and the shaker cutout. It is a good idea to print out the shaker page on card stock. The other pages and be printed on regular paper in black and white.

Hope this helps! Enjoy your October and enjoy your Structured Play time!
*This is just a starting off place. All materials were created for a one year old and may or may not need to be modified for your child.

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