Concepts

Concepts are an idea that allow us to describe items, to talk about things we have done or are going to do. Children need to learn and distinguish attributes first.

How can parents help?

Step 1: TEACH CHILDREN WHAT THESE WORDS MEAN (ONE AT A TIME). When using a target concept, it should be taught one at a time (ie: cold then hot, smooth then rough, fast then slow etc). 

        

Set 1 words             Set 2 words

Step 2: Relate them to everyday experiences and situations for context, ie: clean teeth, clean the car, clean the dishes. 

For a child to develop understanding of different concepts the children will need to be able to experience these concepts in a range of different situations. 

Step 3: Multisensory activities to support memory. 

Play 'Simon says' when learning the concepts 'above', 'below' and 'next-to'.

'Simon says, stand next to the carrot', 'Simon says, put the carrot above the chair' etc. 

Remember: 

1. Use simple language.
2. Use gestures and pictures to help children to remember the concept.
3. Use the concept in conversation and talk about concept in the past and for future experiences.
4. Repeat activitgies frequently.

Generalisation should be ensured so that once the concept has been understood you can begin to widen the child’s knowledge by introducing the concept in other situations.

Concepts can be taught through using activities like sorting and matching.