Provocation: Free Form Igloo

The winter season is so exciting! The cool crisp air, the starry nights, and oh joy-the possibility of snow. Here at Discovery Lane we brought the wonderment of building an igloo into our classrooms. Discussing non-conventional homes, specifically igloos commonly made with whalebone and ice, led to a great discussion and inquiry-based learning experience for the children. 

Provocations allow Little Learners to explore and create while working on pertinent skills such as fine/gross motor, letter and number identification, and problem solving. Exposure to open-ended activities will contrive opportunities for higher order questioning and excite expansion in our Little Learners’ thinking. Our winter inspired provocations are sure to be fun for your kiddo and you!

Materials Needed

• Foam Peanuts
• Small marshmallows
• Visuals of igloo
• Sugar cubes
• Toothpicks

Spread materials out on a long table. You can group items in piles or in small containers. Provide an image of an igloo as a photo reference for your kiddo(s) as they create. Allow the child to reimagine how they want to create their very own igloo. The toothpicks help to keep the igloo together as kiddos build. 

Once the child has decided the igloo is complete ask them to tell you all about their creation e.g. “Tell me about your design!” “Why did you decide to build it like?” “How is it staying together?”

Our kiddos expressed, “These are squishy and sticky!” and “Oooo look at all this stuff!”

Decide together with the child where you will place the igloo for safekeeping. Be sure to snap a photo before the “ice” melts-haha!