Objective

By the end of this lesson, the toddler will be able to identify and describe different types of dinosaurs, understand the concept of extinction, and develop an interest in history and social studies.

Materials and Prep

• Dinosaur books or pictures
• Dinosaur toys or figurines
• Dinosaur coloring pages or drawing materials
• Internet access (optional)

Activities

1. Introduce dinosaurs: Show the toddler pictures of different dinosaurs and talk about their names, sizes, and characteristics. Encourage the toddler to ask questions and engage in conversation about dinosaurs.
2. Dinosaur playtime: Let the toddler play with dinosaur toys or figurines, encouraging them to act out different scenarios and make up stories involving the dinosaurs.
3. Dinosaur coloring: Provide dinosaur coloring pages or blank paper and drawing materials. Let the toddler color or draw their favorite dinosaurs. Discuss the colors they choose and ask them to describe their drawings.
4. Dinosaur storytime: Read a dinosaur-themed book or watch a short educational video about dinosaurs. Discuss the story or video afterward, asking the toddler questions about what they learned.
5. Dinosaur hunt: Hide dinosaur toys or pictures around the house or yard and have the toddler search for them. Encourage them to name the dinosaurs as they find them.

Toddler Grade Talking Points

• "Dinosaurs lived a long, long time ago. They were big and amazing creatures!"
• "Some dinosaurs were tall and had long necks, like the Brachiosaurus. Others were small and fast, like the Velociraptor."
• "Dinosaurs looked different from animals we see today. They had sharp teeth, claws, and some even had horns or spikes on their bodies."
• "Dinosaurs are not alive anymore. They disappeared a very long time ago. This is called extinction."
• "We can learn about dinosaurs by studying their fossils, which are the remains of their bones and teeth that have turned into rock over time."
• "Isn't it fascinating to imagine what the world was like when dinosaurs roamed the Earth? It's like going on a time-travel adventure!"