It’s recommended that children start working with patterns by sorting objects (sort by color, shape, etc.). Then once your preschooler is ready, have him/her start to extend simple patterns. This helps children practice sequencing and making logical predictions- which sets the foundation for algebraic thinking.
This was the first extending patterns activity that I’ve done with my little one, so I started with AB patterns (think: yellow, blue, yellow blue) and then challenged her with a few ABB (yellow, blue, blue, yellow, blue, blue) and ABC patterns (yellow, blue, pink, yellow, blue, pink). I wanted to introduce her to the idea that patterns aren’t just AB. Down the road we will work up to more difficult patterns, but this was a great start!
As a treat, we finished up by reading “The Itsy Bitsy Bunny” by Jeffery Burton and snacking on a few peeps 😉
Here’s the set up:
1. Cut a piece of cardstock in half the long way and tape it together
2. Take a sharpie and make 6 rectangles in a row
3. Open up a few bags of peeps
4. Set up different patterns leaving the last rectangle empty for your preschooler to finish
(Pattern ideas to start with: AB, ABB, ABC, AAB)
(Adult tip: If this is the first time your preschooler is extending patterns, model a few patterns first, saying the colors aloud. This will help your little one understand your mathematical thinking and the expectation of the activity.)
Little learners today, leaders tomorrow… happy creating!
Want to try this activity out? Just pick up the materials below and have fun!
Are You a New York State Pre-K Teacher?
This lesson aligns with the Next Gen Standards:
- Operations & Algebraic Thinking: Understand simple patterns
PK.OA.2: Duplicate and extend simple patterns using concrete objects
MATERIALS:
- White card stock
- Black marker
- Colored Peeps
- Scissors and tape
- Plastic tray or bowl
BOOKS: