Groundhog Day Fun: Exploring Shadows Through Play!

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Happy Groundhog Day! Whether or not the groundhog sees its shadow, today is the perfect opportunity to explore shadows in a fun and hands-on way.

Shadow Tracing Activity

Find a sunny spot or use a lamp to cast shadows, then grab some figurines or objects and trace their shadows on paper. As you play, experiment with different factors:

  • Change the light source – Move it closer or farther away and see how the shadow grows or shrinks.
  • Adjust the object’s position – Tilt, rotate, or flip it and observe how the shadow changes.
  • Try different objects – Compare a smooth object with one that has lots of details. How do their shadows differ?

Get Creative with Shadows!

Once you’ve traced your shadows, take a step back. Do they resemble the original objects, or do they look like something else? Get creative—turn them into animals, monsters, or even a whole scene by adding details!

Bonus Challenge: Storytelling with Shadows

Take it a step further by creating a shadow-inspired story. Maybe your traced shadows look like a secret world of creatures waiting for an adventure. Let your imagination run wild!

I’d love to hear about your shadow creations! Drop me a line and share your favorites. Happy playing!