"I Spy" Binocular Game

Children are always very curious about their world and its surroundings.  This is something that some parents might not be aware of, but you can easily teach your child great vocabulary and language skills using resources that are readily available to you in this busy world.  Basically, today's activity is something that you can do using very few materials, but can also open up a world of knowledge for both parent and child.  It is also a small twist on a popular game that I've played with my preschoolers and that some may already know!

Through "I Spy", we will learn:

• How to follow directions
• How to take turns
• New vocabulary - colors, shapes, , numbers, letters, animals, objects, etc.
• New language skills - repetition, sentence structure

Items that you need include:

• Toilet paper tube 
  
• Stickers, Collage Items
• Glue if needed
• Books, Magazines, Newspaper Ads

First, take the toilet paper tube and decorate it as you wish.  I used stickers because they are just so easy to use.  I placed them where I wanted and this step is actually up to you.  If you don't want to decorate, you can skip this step.  

Next, find a book your child likes, popular newspaper ads, or magazines that have nice, vivid pictures, letters, or numbers that your child is able to identify easily.  Pictured below are books, grocery ads, and a magazine I received in the mail.

After finding the objects you are going to use, you will take the toilet paper tube and pretend that it is a one-scope binocular or magnifying glass.  You will inform your child that you are going to go on a "I Spy" treasure hunt.  When you are ready, this is how this activity will play out.  

"I Spy with my little eye..."

A pink pig

Your child will then use his or her "binocular" or "magnifying glass" to find the pink pig.

Other examples...

I Spy with my little eye a purple dress...

I Spy with my little eye Cap'n Crunch...

I Spy with my little eye the letter "S"

Honestly, this game isn't always about pictures.  It can also be about letters, numbers, colors, or shape recognition.  This game is yours to dictate.  You decide what you feel you want your child to learn and have fun with it!

Extension activity:

Take it on the road ~ Summer is coming to a close, but I know there have to be a few more road trips left :-)  Have your child take his or her binoculars with him or her and play "I Spy" on the road.  Look for familiar objects such as restaurants, road signs, and vehicles.  Trust me, this game can be a lifesaver in the car!

Since this game is so diverse, how else do you play "I Spy"?  Share your thoughts!