Shape Up!: Shape Hunt + Matching + Spatial Words

Toddlers learn best through action + language together.

Objectives

Materials

Instructions

Materials

- Sugar paper in various colours (red, blue, yellow, green)

- Child-safe scissors

- Glue sticks

- Markers

- Large chart paper

- Various shapes cut from sugar paper (circles, squares, triangles, rectangles)

- Pictures of family members (can be drawn by children or provided by families)

- A basket or box for collecting shapes

Learning Objectives

- Children will identify and name at least two basic shapes.

- Children will participate in a shape hunt around the classroom.

- Children will sort and match shapes to corresponding outlines.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather the children and introduce the concept of shapes. Show them a few examples and say the names clearly (e.g., "This is a circle, like a ball."). You can also relate shapes to their families: "A circle is like the dinner table where your family eats."

2. Explain that you will go on a "shape hunt" to find shapes in the classroom, just like they might find things in their home. Sing a simple shape song to build excitement.

3. Lead the children on a short walk around the room, pointing out shapes they see. "Look, that clock is a circle, just like the round plate your mummy uses!" Encourage children to point to shapes they notice.

4. Distribute a few pre-cut shapes to each child. Help them hold and feel the shapes. "This square is like your mommy's picture frame."

5. Have children place their collected shapes into a basket or box, saying the shape's name if they can.

6. On the chart paper, draw large outlines of the shapes you have focused on.

7. Invite children to come up one by one and match their shapes to the correct outline on the chart paper. Support them as needed, saying things like, "You found the triangle! Can you put it in the triangle shape?"

8. As children match shapes, reinforce the names and connect them to home: "This square fits perfectly in the square box, just like your teddy bear fits in your bed at home."

Educator Tip

Keep this activity short and engaging for toddlers. Focus on one or two shapes at a time. For children who are not yet verbal, encourage pointing and reaching to show understanding. You can also involve families by sending home a simple shape scavenger hunt list for them to do together at home, asking them to share photos of shapes they find in their house.

Assessment

Observe which children can identify and name shapes, even with a prompt. Note their participation in the shape hunt and their ability to match shapes to outlines. Collect any drawings or crayon rubbings of shapes children create, or notes from families about shapes they identified at home.

Educator tip

Use choice questions; keep groups small; accept approximations.

Assessment

Observe and note: emerging independence, two-word combinations, imitation of actions, and early pretend play. Use Development Matters non-statutory guidance checkpoints. Observe participation, imitation, labelling.

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