Barney and Friends . Parents and Educators . Lesson Plans

lesson plans

Chase Bubbles

Suggested Grade Level: Preschool-K

Based on: Barney & Friends #708: "Play For Exercise!"

Objectives:
Young children are naturally active. They need opportunities to run, jump, climb and move to exercise their muscles and develop their physical coordination. Exercise does not need a formal routine. Something as simple as running and playing provides opportunities for large muscle development.

The children will:

know that exercise is fun
understand that exercise is necessary for developing stamina and strength
know that exercise is appropriate for all ages
learn that chasing bubbles is good exercise

Skills:

Gross motor
Math (measurement)
Following directions

Materials:

Open area
Water
Liquid dishwashing soap
Measuring cup
Glycerine
Bubble blowers: clean plastic fly swatter, embroidery hoops, empty wooden spools, small juice cans (with both ends removed), sieves, and colanders.

Directions:
Children love to run and chase, and it's great exercise too! Choose a wide-open area like a park or playground for this activity.

Here's a simple recipe that makes lots of bubbles:

2 cups water

1 cup liquid dishwashing soap

one-fourth cup glycerin (available at drug stores - not necessary, but a small amount helps make better bubbles!)

Write the recipe on a large piece of poster board and children can help follow the recipe. You may even allow some students to help measure and pour.

When the bubble solution is mixed, give children objects to blow bubbles with. They can use bubble blowers, or some suggestions for making a variety of bubble sizes include a clean plastic fly swatter, embroidery hoops, empty wooden spools, small juice cans (both ends removed) sieves, and colanders.

After children blow the bubbles, they can chase and pop them!

Extension:
Play "Ring Around the Rosie."

Make a large circle with all children holding hands. Sing and recite "Ring Around the Rosie." Repeat changing the verses to "Run," "Skip," and "Hop" Around the Rosie. This game encourages exercise by running, skipping and hopping.