Shapes are everywhere in the world around us, and it’s important for kids to learn to recognize them. From the triangle to the octagon, each shape has its own unique properties and uses. Learning how to identify, create and use shapes is an important part of early educational development.
Shapes for Kids
Teaching children about shapes is a great way to get them familiar with the concepts early on. Teach kids the basic shapes such as circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, ovals and diamonds. Then, when they’re ready, introduce more photogenic shapes like pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, octagons, polygons, and star shapes.
Printables for Kids
Give kids the opportunity to learn shapes with printables shaped like their favorite characters. With these cutouts, kids can get creative and explore the shapes with their hands. Or, use the sheet as a template for drawing, painting and other hands-on activities. Either way, it’s a great way to introduce kids to the fun of shapes.
Printable Shapes Chart
For kids who are just starting to learn their shapes, create a simple chart like the one pictured above. Print some copies of the chart and provide markers, crayons and other coloring materials for the kids to decorate their own chart. Label all the shapes on the chart with their names, to help them remember them.
Tracing Shapes
Tracing shapes is a great way for kids to hone their motor skills, while also practicing their shapes. Provide tracing paper, markers and other writing/drawing materials. Have the child trace the shapes with a marker, while also speaking aloud the names of the shapes they’re tracing.
Coloring Shapes
Coloring is another great way to teach kids shapes. Download free printable coloring sheets with all sorts of shapes on them. Label the first picture with its respective shape, then give the kids colored pencils or crayons to color in the picture. Kids can then match their colored picture to the labelled version.
Teaching Shapes
To really reinforce the ideas of shapes, try using diagrams like the one above. Print out copies and give the kids markers, crayons, pencils and other writing utensils. Have them label the shapes with their respective names, then color them in. Doing this gives kids a chance to really cement the shapes in their mind.
Evaluating Shapes
