Today’s post is written by Bren, a contributor to PreKinders.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Such a fun question to explore with preschoolers! Throughout the year we learn about different occupations through books, field trips and special visitors. One day in the spring, I send home with each preschooler: a grocery sack, a piece of paper with the words “When I Grow Up I Want To BE…..” and a note that says, “Talk to your child about what they want to be when they grow up. Have them draw a picture of what they want to be, using crayons or markers. Put 1-3 items in the bag for clues. We are going to try to figure out your child’s future occupation.
Examples:
- Pilot – toy airplane, map, “wings” (made from paper)
- Dancer – ballet shoes, tutu
- Chef – mixing bowl, play food, recipe.”
Before the preschoolers show the items in their bag, their classmates ask questions. A few of their favorite questions are: Do you work inside or outside? Do you work with animals? Do you wear special clothes (a uniform)? Do you use tools? Do you save people?
I take a picture of each child, attach it to the picture they drew and we add it to their preschool memory book. Years from now, won’t they have fun remembering what they wanted to be when they were four years old?
Find more Community Helper Activities for Pre-K on the category page.