Building Math Knowledge together with Loose Parts

A great way to learn about different 2D or 3D shapes is to build their knowledge to create towers, small cities or create art or models.

Use building blocks and/or recycled or natural loose part materials such as boxes, yogurt pots, log cookies or pebbles to build towers (or you can create art or transient art (movable art from loose parts) or junk models).

Talk about the different shapes, sizes and weight of the items. Discuss what shapes look like different everyday things, "This rectangle box reminds me of our toaster" or "This cylinder pot is the same shape as our bin".

If you are creating transient art, talk about how you can create spirals, like a snail shell, or square windows from sticks on a house, count the 4 sides/edges.

Build in different ways or directions, to introduce problem solving, do certain shapes fit better together?

Make comparisons, "Look this tower is as tall as the table" or " Your tower is bigger than mine, what shapes did you use to make your tower so tall?"

Try building with smaller blocks at the bottom first “Opps! All fall down!” learn about gravity!

Remember hands on, having fun and laughing makes the experience playful, and encourages them to try it next time independently for themselves.

Part of our Introducing Math Concepts to Children Guide - Join our Premium Membership to read more.