Lake 1

Message in a Backpack
Shapes

What are Shapes: A shape is the form of an object or its external

boundary, outline, or external surface, as opposed to other
properties such as color, texture or material composition.
(Wikipedia)

Why is it important to learn shapes? It takes longer for young

children to learn the specific properties of each shape, such as
the number of sides or how the shape looks. Giving preschoolers
lots of practice with shapes helps them solidify their
understanding of the two-dimensional structures.
( https://www.englishclub.com/efl/tefl-articles/how-to-teach-shapes-to-young-learners/ )

There are lots of ways to learn about shapes.

You can find them, draw them, and read about them.
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Here are a few books good book titles to enjoy.

 Brown Rabbit’s Shapes
 My heart is like a zoo
 Shapes that roll
 The Greedy Triangle
 Shapes, Shapes, Shapes

Make pictures by gluing pre made shapes to paper. Cut out shapes with colored
construction paper and have a glue stick. Have your child pick shapes to glue to
make a picture. It will mean a lot more if you are making a picture with your child.

Playing with different blocks.

There is no wrong way to play with blocks. Just make sure you
are allowing enough time for your child to get engaged, and it is
always better if you are right there with them building
something too.
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Recognizing shapes in nature on a walk or

in the car play this game “I spy with my little eye a “triangle”

you can go on a scavenger hunt. Take turns

finding a shape and giving clues for the other to find the shape in
question.

Make the playdough from the recipe below. Then with either popsicle sticks or
shape cookie cutters you can do the activity below.

Playdough and shape cookie cutters

2D shape activity using craft sticks and play dough

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How to make playdough: Playdough ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 cup salt
4 teaspoons cream of tartar
2 cups lukewarm water
2 Tablespoons of vegetable oil (coconut oil works too)
Food coloring, optional
Quart sized bags

Stir together the flour, salt and cream of tartar in a large pot.
Next add the water and oil. If you’re only making one color, add
in the color now as well. Cook over medium heat, stirring
constantly. Continue stirring until the dough has thickened and
begins to form into a ball. Remove from heat and then place
inside a gallon sized bag or onto wax paper. Allow to cool
slightly and then knead until smooth. If you’re adding colors
after, divide the dough into balls (for how many colors you
want) and then add the dough into the quart sized bags. Start
with about 5 drops of color and add more to brighten it. Knead
the dough, while inside the bag so it doesn’t stain your hands.
Once it’s all mixed together you’re ready to PLAY.
Store the play dough inside the bags once done to keep soft.
Keeps for up to 3 months