Color Spy

What You Need:

• Card stock or other sturdy paper (index cards work well too)
• Scissors
• Markers in a rainbow of colors

What You Do:

1. Begin by talking about color with your child, using the markers as a guide. Take each marker out of the package one at a time and ask your child to name the colors as you go along. 
2. Cut the card stock into 5" x 7" rectangles. If you're using index cards, move on to step 3.
3. Have your child draw a picture of a flower, plant, or other nature-based item on the front of each card, using only one color for each card.
4. Now turn each card over and write the name of the color you used on that card on the back using the same color marker. For some handwriting practice, try writing the words lightly in pencil first, then having her trace over the letters in marker.
5. Now it's time to play! Take the cards outside. Choose one card and ask your child to name the color, then turn the card over to reveal the color word.
6. Now look around outside and find something natural (like a tree or flower) that's the same color as the card.
7. Once you've found something, turn to your child and say, “I spy something with my eye that is the color_____”. Encourage your child to try and find the object you chose. Give your child descriptive word clues to help point them in the right direction. If your child guesses another object that is the right color, let them know that their pick is also correct.
8. Continue playing by repeating steps 5-7 for the rest of the color cards. 

Extension: During the course of the game, invite your child to select unique adjectives to describe each color (e.g. the vibrant pink flower). Encourage your child to get creative with their word choices and use their imagination!