I loved to use a magnifying glass as a kid to see the details of the world around me. I was excited to give each of our kids their own magnifying glass that they could use to explore and discover. This is a fun and inexpensive way that kids can learn more about everyday objects and nature finds.
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For this activity, all you need is a magnifying glass (preferably one per child) and imagination. These are available in a one or two-pack and I got a back up pack in case one broke. So far, they have held up well and I have not needed the back up. Our kids liked looking at ‘pill bugs’ the best and gathered a few to inspect on the cement, then placed them gently back on the dirt.
Ideas for Kids to Explore with a Magnifying glass:
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Parts of a flower
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Insects
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Toy cars and trains
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Words in a book
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Details on a leaf
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Patterns on fabric
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The grain on a piece of wood
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Have the children look at each other’s eyes magnified (They find this hilarious!)
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Examine their hands and feet
Ask them questions about their observations. What did they learn? What did they like the best? Our kids wanted to do it again the next day. “Can we go on a bug hunt pleeeeeease? With the magnifying glass?” My answer, “Yes, I think we can do that.”
Such a fun, simple idea! I love it. Plus, hopefully it will get my daughter a little bit out of her Barbie-princess-mermaid-girl-toy comfort zone! 🙂
Hi Alyssa.
If your daughter is into the Barbie-princess-mermaid thing. Have her magnify those toys. Our boys loved magnifying their hot wheels!
: 0 ) Theresa
Great idea! My kids would love to do this. Off to go buy a couple magnifying glasses 😉
Thank you Karen.
I hope your kids have fun with this!
: 0 ) Theresa
This is such a great idea! The kids always loved pulling out the magnifying glasses when I taught Kindergarten. My son is really into bugs right now, so I'm going to have to get one for him!
Love this! Now, I'll have to go find three magnifying glasses! Thanks for the activity.
Hi Tricia.
I bet you were a fantastic kindergarten teacher! I imagine your son will love this activity as much as your students did.
: 0 ) Theresa
Thank you Shann Eva.
Enjoy!
: 0 ) Theresa
My daughter could explore with a magnifying glass all day too!
Hi Emma.
Yes! There is something about kids and magnifying glasses. I was the same way.
: 0 ) Theresa