Simple Preschool Shape Activities

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.