Materials
magazines
child-safe scissors
lightweight cardboard such as from a cereal box or file folder
paper
markers
Instructions
Preparation
l Use the materials to set up a home improvement or building supply store in
the dramatic play area. Display the sign and the selection of materials and
supplies within the "store." Be sure to include some pieces of lumber or
wood.
What To Do
1. Ask the children if they have ever seen people doing construction work on
their homes or on their neighbors' homes. Talk about where the supplies for
that work came from.
2. Show the children the Building Supply Store materials, and invite the children
to explore them, role playing as employees or customers.
3. Encourage the children to have questions for the workers at the store, such as:
"What would I need to build a garage," "How much wood do I need to build
a fence for my dog," and "Can you show me where the tools are located?"
4. Challenge the children use the play money and cash register to pay and make
change for the materials.
Assessment
To assess the children's learning, consider the following:
l Do the children show an understanding of why people go to building supply
stores?
l Do the children interact well with one another?
