Make sandy drawings

3 to 5 years Play and learning

15 minute activity

Like any other drawing activity, drawing in the sand gives tamariki opportunities to showcase their creativity. It helps strengthen the fine muscles in their hands and fingers and the practice of going from left to right.

An illustration of the word "hello" written in sand.
An illustration of the word "hello" written in sand.

Why do it?

  • It gives tamariki opportunities to be creative.
  • Grow their skills and confidence in drawing through practice — repetition of actions strengthens pathways in their brain.
  • Strengthen the practice of going from left to right, which helps with both reading and writing.
  • Strengthen the fine muscles in their hands and fingers, which will help them when they start writing letters and numbers.

How to do it

You’ll need: Some soft sand (or dirt), large sticks.

  1. Go to the beach! Find a flat patch of sand near the water.
  2. If you can, write your name or special messages.
  3. Use your sticks to draw pictures.
  4. Share what you like about each other’s then watch them wash away.

Using more te reo Māori

Te reo Māori English
Line
Stick
Beach
Sand
Name

Related

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