When something absorbs something else, it takes it in and makes it a part of itself. For example, when a sponge absorbs water, the water goes into the sponge and becomes a part of it. Many different things can absorb other things, like plants absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, or a towel absorbing spilled milk.
Here are some fun and simple activities to help young learners understand the concept of "absorb":
Take a dry sponge and place it in a bowl of water. Have the children observe how the sponge absorbs the water and gets bigger and heavier.
Take a small potted plant and water it in front of the children. Explain how the plant's roots absorb the water from the soil to help it grow big and strong.
Place a paper towel on a spilled liquid and show how it absorbs the liquid, becoming wet as it does so. This can help children understand how materials can absorb liquids.
By using these activities, children can have a hands-on experience with the concept of "absorb" and gain a better understanding of how it works in the world around them.