Skip to Content

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

We did this activity a long time ago, but it was so fun, it’s one we don’t want to forget! We made “junk jars” for letter Jj.

J is for Junk Jar Activity

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

Maybe this is why I have a hard time throwing things out – possibly it’s hereditary? My mom had these small jars for *years* at home, in a drawer, saving them for oh, I don’t know, something! Someday! Definitely too cute to throw out. When I was there helping her clean out cabinets, she gave them to me. I knew exactly what we’d do with them!

We made junk jars! Or you could call them collection jars or sensory jars even.

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

Each child chose miscellaneous items from a container and put them into their jars.

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

We used:

  • buttons
  • pompoms
  • foam shapes
  • sequins
  • beads
  • mosaic pieces

Some chose to pour colored sand in theirs as well. You may want to glue the lids shut depending on the ages of your group.

J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities

These were treasured little jars!

A couple other activities we did with jars:

Ping Pong Ball Toss Game

Similar to the carnival game, I put several jars in a bin with low sides. You can also use a carboard box or one turned on it’s side so it catches the balls. Mark a spot for the child to stand and have him/her toss the balls into the jars. It’s not easy! They pop out very easily but it is fun!

Letter Jj Game - Ping Pong Ball Toss

Clothespin Drop into the Jar Game

I always liked this party game and preschoolers like it too! I have a party set but you can pull together your own with a regular jar and clothespins.

Letter Jj Game - Clothespin drop into a jar

Have fun with letter J!

Alphabet Practice Activities - Lipgloss and Crayons

Sunday 5th of March 2017

[…] J is for Junk Jar ~ Preschool Alphabet Activities – Things to Share and Remember […]

Denise @ Kinder-Touch

Saturday 25th of January 2014

These are great activities to keep the kids busy! I love the jars! I actually think you covered the lid with a piece of cloth but then I realized you didn't because it was the color of the lid originally. I once collected a jar of a baby food few years ago and it is where I keep some of my beads stuff. I think I'll be doing this again. Memories. :D