What Makes an Activity Card Effective
- Short (1–2 sentences max)
- Clear and easy to understand
- Uses materials families already have
- Focuses on play, not instruction
- Can be repeated again and again
Examples of Activity Cards
- “Count how many steps it takes to get from one room to another.”
- “Draw a picture and tell someone a story about it.”
- “Find something in your home for each color you know.”
- “Play a game and practice taking turns.”
- “Build something using cups, boxes, or toys.”
- “Talk about your favorite part of the day.”
Ways to Send Them Home
- Cut into individual cards on a ring
- Place in an envelope or small bag
- Create a “pick one a day” set
- Send a small stack each week leading into summer
Tips for Providers
- Start with 10–15 cards—no need to overdo it
- Use language families already understand
- Avoid making them feel like a checklist to complete
- Model a few examples with children before sending home