Learning about shapes can be done in so many different and engaging ways! Here are a few simple preschool shape activities my students (past and present) have enjoyed.
They center around going on a “shape hunt” with the kiddos – walking around the classroom (and/or school, playground, etc.) and making note of the different shapes that can be found. A sweet and simple math activity children always seem to love.
preschool shape activities that require little setup
Photo I-Spy
Decide which shape you’re going to look for, then grab a camera and the kids. As they find the correct shape, snap some photos. If possible, let the children help with the photos. While on the lookout for specific shapes, be sure to talk about the characteristics of each shape.
Print out the photos, then use them for a variety of additional shape activities – make charts, books, sorting games, or a wall display with them.
Modeled Writing Charts
Grab a large chart, or just some plain paper. Split it into sections, then label each section with a shape. When just starting out, keep it simple and focus on the basics – triangle, square, rectangle, and circle. Write the shape word, then ask the kids to help explain what it looks like. Write down the words the children offer (as long as they make sense, of course). Then let the children draw pictures of items that are each shape – so a child might draw a picture of a clock in the circle section. Label each child’s drawing. Then the chart can be hung up and used as a reference!
Homemade Books
I always enjoy making books with the children, both individual books and whole class books. Staple some paper together, then write, “I see a (shape).” on each page. The children can illustrate each page with items that are that shape. If the book needs to be even simpler, help the kids draw each shape on the correct page.
Do you have any simple preschool shape activities to share? If so, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!
For more shapes-themed ideas, check out what the rest of the #TeachECE crew is up to this week:
Shiny Showy Shapes Alliteration Fun by Growing Book by Book
Roll and Cover The Shapes Alphabet Activity by Mom Inspired Life
Shapes Preschool Theme Sand Writing Tray by Learning 2 Walk
Mixing Shapes with Our Bodies – Group Activity by Capri + 3
Shape Sensory Squish Bag by Still Playing School
Shape I Spy for Preschoolers: Free Printable by Life Over C’s
Playdough Shapes Building Challenge for Preschoolers by The Preschool Toolbox Blog
DIY Shapes Puzzle by Munchkins and Moms
Done-for-You Preschool Resources
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I love the I Spy photo book that the children help to create. I imagine they would love to read it again and again while remembering the shapes they found.
Good ideas… I recently did a lesson about rectangles and had the kids “build their own” with pre cut paper strips. The kids loved making their own rectangles, and it showed me exactly who knew what a rectangle looks like!
I love the book idea!
What a great idea! I’m going to use this next week for our math lesson. Thanks!