Hot Air Balloon Shapes

Shape recognition builds foundational geometry understanding and supports visual-spatial development.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Air Travel
• Learning area: Numeracy
• Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception

Objectives

• Recognise geometric shapes
• Identify shapes in the environment
• Create art using shapes

Materials

• Felt board
• Felt hot air balloon shapes
• Shape cutouts (circle, oval, square, rectangle, diamond)

Instructions

Create felt hot air balloons on a felt board, each designated for a particular shape. Children sort shape cutouts onto the correct balloon.

Educator tip

Sing a simple shape song while children work to reinforce shape names: 'Circle, circle, round and round, no corners can be found!'

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Evaluate correct identification and placement of shapes, and ability to verbalize shape attributes.

More from EYFS Air Travel

• Macaroni Flight Patterns
• Flying High ABC Book
• ABC Scavenger Hunt Flight
• Air Travel Story Time
• Sandy Sky Letters
• Ticket Writing Station
• Rhyming in the Clouds
• Fly Like an Airplane Dance