Shadows can seem scary at night when children don't understand what they are. Turn them into playful fun in the daytime, and a way to offer some reassuring talk about other things that may be scary for your child.

Materials:

• Bright light -- such as a desk lamp or flashlight

Directions:

Shine the light on the wall. Have your child stand between the light and the wall. Show your child how to use his or her hands, fingers, or body to make shadows. You may want to take turns making shadows and guessing what the shape is.

You might use these or some of your own:

• Make a deer by putting your thumb and forefinger together, with other fingers up for the antlers.
• Make a rabbit by holding down your last two fingers with your thumb and putting your forefinger and middle finger up for the ears.
• Make a dog or alligator with a big mouth by keeping the back of your palms together and moving your hands like a hinge.

Back to Theme