Preschoolers get excited learning about police and firemen. They enjoy making the siren sounds, dressing up and just using the strong colors that come with this unit. Your boys will be sure to pay attention during this unit so enjoy getting to know them better.
I encourage you to contact your local police and fire departments to have them visit during this unit. If you can go on a field trip, it is extra beneficial to allow the kids to see a fire station up close. One warning I have is to prepare the kids for the masks. Every year I have taught, I have had a few girls get scared when the firemen put on their full gear.
It is important to bring the learning back into the classroom. Here are some activities to do in a center-driven classroom.
Art
Every year, we do fingerprinting. I make a fingerprinting card on the computer that lists their fingers and draw boxes. Sometimes, I even wear a police hat during art time. The kids think it is funny.
A second art activity is to allow the kids to paint a fire truck. Place a picture of one at the art table. Give the kids paintbrushes and red paint. You will be amazed at their creativity.
Create badges: allow the kids to create their own police or firemen badge. Provide stickers, sequins for the girls, etc. Cut out a badge shape. You can even laminate the finish project if possible and pin on with a safety pin.
Homeliving
Dress up is probably the biggest hit with this center. Provide police and firemen dress up. You can also place a little tricycle or cozy coup and allow the kids to pretend to be firemen or policemen.
Sensory table
I usually bury laminated red Fs and blue Ps. I place red or blue rice in the table and allow the kids to dig and find them. We tend to do one each day and discuss the sound and color of the letter.
Another fun outside activity is to fill squirt bottles with water. Draw a pretend fire out of chalk outside then let the kids squirt it away! They love this activity!
Blocks
Place fire trucks and police cars in the block station. Have the kids build a fire station or police station. Be sure to use legos or different design blocks so they can be as realistic as they want to be.
Writing Center
Have the kids pretend to be officers and interview the another student. Each student being interviewed will have to write or share their phone number and address.
Firefighters and policemen themed units can be stimulating for preschoolers or all ages. These are just a few suggestions I use in my class. Feel free to add more activities in the comment section below.
