Magnetic/NonMagnetic
Magnetic/Nonmagnetic encourages children to test different objects with a magnet to see what attracts or repels. It introduces basic STEM concepts, builds reasoning and prediction skills, and supports fine motor control and classification. Encourage children to guess before testing to deepen critical thinking.
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What do you do:
Place a mix of magnetic and non-magnetic items on the tray.
Give your toddler a magnetic wand and encourage free exploration.
They pick up one item at a time and test its magnetism using the wand.
What's Needed:
Tray and magnet
Pencil
Rock
Metal
Bulldog clip
Toy digger
Wooden block
Key
Metal spoon
Coins etc.
How to Adapt
Younger toddlers: Use larger, safe magnetic objects and a single wand; focus on exploration and discovery.
Older toddlers/preschoolers: Introduce smaller objects, multiple wands, or a mix of shapes and sizes for a challenge.
Learning twist: Sort items into magnetic vs. non-magnetic groups and count or compare them.
Sensory variation: Place objects in a tray with sand, rice, or water to make finding magnets more engaging.
Benefits of the Activity
Develops scientific thinking – children explore cause and effect through magnetism.
Enhances fine motor skills – picking up and testing objects strengthens hand control.
Builds hand-eye coordination – guiding the wand requires precision.
Encourages observation and comparison – distinguishes between magnetic and non-magnetic objects.
