Circle, Circle, Square

Activity 27: Making Patterns with Shapes

Materials:

Small shapes cut out from paper: 8 circles, 8 squares, 8 triangles, and 8 rectangles, divided into 2 sets (each set with 4 of each shape)
*Tip: Cut shapes from a piece of paper folded in half twice to make 4 shapes at 1 time.

Try It Out:

1. Give 1 set of shapes (4 of each shape) to your child and keep the other set for yourself. Say, “Let’s make a pattern with our shapes.”
2. Create a simple pattern with your shapes while your child watches. Say, “Watch me. Circle-circle-square. Circle-circle-square.”
   • Ask your child to make a pattern that looks just like yours.
   • Ask your child to help you say the pattern. Point to each shape, in order, as you say the shapes together: circle-circle-square.
3. If your child can make a pattern that matches yours, try it again with a more challenging pattern: circle-square-square-triangle.
4. Let your child create his own shape pattern. Look at his pattern and name the shapes together.

Making the Most of This Activity:

Try making shape patterns outside on the sidewalk with chalk. Or use shapes cut out from bread and cheese during mealtime.

Reflect:

Was your child able to match your pattern? If not, he may not be quite ready for this activity. Try making simpler patterns, with only 2 shapes.