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Helping adults prepare children for kindergarten and life.

Introducing #5

Pattern making using shoes

Month 6 · Activity 6 ·   Numbers  

Instructions

  • Collect five pairs of shoes - using child or adult shoes
  • Separate the shoes into two piles - left and right shoes
  • Together count the right shoes (5)
  • Together count the left shoes (5)
  • The child gets the five right-footed shoes and adult the five left-footed shoes
  • The adult makes a “pattern”  selecting any two left shoes; placing the two shoes on the floor. 
  • Ask the child to copy the pattern with two matching right shoes by placing the two shoes in the correct pattern on the floor
  • The pattern can be a design pattern of using the shoes to create a "picture" OR a pattern of placing shoes in order, For example, first place the sandal on the floor and then blue sneaker next to the sandal
  • Make a pattern using three shoes 
  • Make a pattern using four shoes
  • Make a pattern using five shoes

Simplify

If making a pattern with the shoes is difficult, place all five pairs of shoes in a pile and select one shoe.  Ask the child to find the matching shoe.

Watch this video to learn about the number 5

Extend

Reinforce listening skills by verbally describing a shoe for the child to match.  For example, please find the two shoes that are blue, with white laces, and a rubber sole OR find the two shoes that are brown and have no back heel.

QUESTIONS FOR CHILD

Are you older or younger than 5 years? What age would you like to be and why?

If you could have 5 of something, what would that item be and why?

Materials

  • 5 pairs of shoes (child or adult - boots, slippers, etc.)
  • Math & Science Skills
  • Problem Solving Skills