Community helpers is a classic preschool theme. We took a tour of our local fire station last summer, and it really left an impression on my daughter!
(Check out our firefighting-inspired dramatic play activity here.)
This and her recent fascination with trucks, cars, and all things that go inspired us to do a little active learning about community helpers and the vehicles they drive.
We don’t do a lot of formal, classroom-type learning. This activity comes pretty close, though!
My soon-to-be three-year-old recently became interested in distinguishing between the different kinds of cars and trucks that we see while we’re out.
“What is that?”
“A garbage truck.”
“What’s it for?”
“Getting trash.”
“Who does that?”
“The garbage man.”
“What’s it for?”
*sigh*
I figured I may as well teach her something she’s interested in!
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The Community Helper & Vehicle Matching Game
I printed these adorable community helper word cards from PreKinders.com in grayscale so we could color them.
First, we talked about the name of the vehicle and who drives them. I had to explain some of the roles, like the construction worker. Others, like the firefighter, she already knew.
Next, she named the color of the vehicle and colored the community helper card to match the vehicle.
We did this for each of the vehicles and cards: garbage truck, bus, fire truck, police car, dump truck, ambulance.
Then I taped the cards in a large circle on the floor and put all the community helper vehicles in the center.
I asked Ella to match the vehicle to the person who drives it on the card.
We played a few times to cement the concepts in her mind.
Making Real-Life Connections
Activities like this are meant to enhance real-life experiences. Sometimes we read a book about a real-life topic, and then do an activity.
Other times, we do an activity as an imitation of something we experienced in real life. A visit to a fire station inspired us to play “firefighter” at home.
Your Turn to Play The Community Helper & Vehicle Matching Game
Does your toddler love trucks? Turn his love into a learning game by talking about helpers in your community and the awesome trucks and vehicles they get to drive!
Looking for an organized guide of fun, easy activities to do with your toddler that also encourages their growth and development?
I’ve created a 3-month activity planner just for busy parents like you! The plan includes 65 detailed, simple, and stress-free activities including: arts and crafts, sensory play, motor skills, and STEM–all using easy-to-find supplies.
Let me help make planning activities for your toddler easy, so you can skip the stress and get straight to the fun!