THE ACTIVITY CUPBOARD

Hello, little-world makers.

Simple starting points for preschool teachers, early years educators, and wonderfully curious families.

Professor Pesto conducts golden stars while Herman and Little Chicken play on their felt stage
The stars are rehearsing. Quietly? Absolutely not.

Watch a little. Talk a little. Make a lot.

These adaptable 15-minute plans use observation, conversation, and pretend play. Choose a still image or skip the screen entirely. No specialist equipment needed.

COUNTING · LANGUAGE · IMAGINATION

Five stars to somewhere.

Count down, spot shapes, and create a pretend moon journey using paper, crayons, and a little floor space.

Open the space activity

FEELINGS · LISTENING · FRIENDSHIP

Brave can be a small thing.

Notice a character’s expression, name a feeling, and practice the kind words a friend might need.

Open the feelings activity

A note before you begin.

Designed as activity ideas for roughly ages 3–5 with adult support; adapt to your group. These are not a certified curriculum or an assessment. Review all media first: both films contain fantasy peril and large creatures. Still-image activities and games offer an alternative to a full viewing.

Offer speaking, pointing, drawing, or observing as equally welcome ways to join in. Use printed images for children who prefer less screen time. Give children permission to pass.