Gluing as an activity!

GETTING INTO A STICKY SITUATION IS GOOD!
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Sensory activities provide children an avenue for learning. Happyimagination guides young children to enjoy the process of art making.
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Young children learn best when given the opportunity to explore materials at their own pace  and fashion (with guidance and supervision of course). It is not easy to explain the purpose of using glue to toddlers (age 18months - 2 1/2 years).  Learning how to use a glue stick or glitter glue is an activity on its own.   A simple task of gluing something onto a piece of paper may seem simple,  however this 2-step instruction for toddlers (1. rub glue onto paper, and 2. stick object onto paper) requires practice and assistance .  Allow children to touch the glue and to feel the sticky texture  on their fingers.  Some children choose to remove or  pull out the glued objects from their art work.  Toddlers are curious and  learn through exploring various materials.   The process of exploring glue help toddlers associate the "sticky feeling" to stickers as well (I'll save that for another post).   Eventually children will understand the concept of glue. 

Toddlers enjoy the sensory experience of rubbing glue onto paper or onto any surface for the matter.  The smooth gooey texture allows children to move their hands and arms freely in various directions. The more muscle control children develop in their little hands (especially the thumbs and index fingers),  will aid in grasping and holding a paint brush, coloring with crayons, peeling stickers, and stamping.   Children vary in developmental skills at different ages.   As you know, children will surprise you everyday with the little things that they do. Enjoy every moment of it!

TIP: Have toddlers use color glue sticks so the applied glue is visible.
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Thanks for reading my experiences and thoughts about working with children. Please let me know if you have any questions.

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