May is full of flowers and sunshine across the country, but it's also a time to celebrate all things photography. That's right, it's National Photography Month, which is the perfect reason to integrate a variety of photography fun into your preschool classroom. Here are six inspiring ideas to get you started:
Photography history: Most of your preschoolers only know the cameras that exist on their parents' smartphones. Create an age-appropriate lesson that discusses the history of photography to open their eyes to this modern art form. If you have an old camera, bring it in to show them. You might also see if you can borrow one from a local history center or antique dealer.
What is a photographer? Having someone visit who is a professional photographer can be a wonderful way to open children's eyes to this interesting occupation. Maybe a parent is a photographer or you know someone who is willing to come in for a brief presentation and Q&A with your inquisitive group. Have them bring their equipment to help explain how to get the best pictures possible.
Scrapbook: Print out the pictures you've taken throughout the past school year and work with the kids to create a class scrapbook of all your adventures. Include school pictures as well as the candid shots you've captured during class, field trips and holiday events. Let groups help design different pages of the scrapbook and have students add their unique flair. Display during open houses for future students to enjoy!
Photo crafts: Use the free Lifetouch Arts and Crafts Stickers you received at the start of the year to make some really interesting photo-themed crafts. Bookmarks are always a great idea that can be cut, colored and then customized with each child's school picture. Then laminate and send home to encourage reading all summer long!
Picture share event: Ask parents to share images of each student's baby photo and then play a fun game where students guess whose photo is whose. You might even make a board and hang it in the hallway so caregivers can get in on the fun, too. It's interesting to see the resemblances as kids have grown. Don't forget that teachers should participate, too! Bring in old images and let kids giggle with delight.
Photo guessing game: Go around the school and take pictures of different things to play a fun guessing game. The game involves two images: one of the item close up and the other of the full item. You play the game by showing the class the item close up, so they have to guess what it is based on the limited visual. After everyone has guessed, show the full picture so they can see what it really is!
Enjoy National Photography Month with your class, and don't forget to take pictures of all the action as well!
May is full of flowers and sunshine across the country, but it's also a time to celebrate all things photography.