Sorting 2D & 3D Objects by Shape

Gather a variety of 2D and 3D objects in different sizes and colors. Challenge children to sort shapes into separate baskets or piles. Use and encourage your child to use a range of descriptive words to talk about the object. Do the shapes remain the same when you turn them different ways?

Materials (but not limited to):

• 2D & 3D household shapes
• Basket or boxes

Age-appropriate Adaptations:

• Two-year-olds—Try sorting only two to three shapes to start, placing a label on the basket with a picture of the appropriate 2D or 3D shape top help make sorting easier.
• Three-year-olds—Have child sort 4-6 shapes labeling the basket/box with picture and word.
• Four-/Five-year-olds—Have child sort 5-6 shapes labeling the basket/box with picture and word. Also, have your child find items around your home to add to each basket.

Skills Supported: begin to understand shape consistency and similarity and identify similar 2D and 3D shapes when presented in various sizes and orientation