Shape sorter patience
1–2 yearsEmotional WellbeingMaterials: Simple shape sorter with 2-3 shapes
Use a simple shape sorter with 2-3 basic shapes like circles and squares. Let your child try to fit shapes into holes. They'll often try the wrong hole first. When this happens, say that one doesn't fit. Let's try this one, pointing to the correct hole. This teaches that wrong attempts are just part of figuring things out.
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How to Do This Activity
Use a simple shape sorter with 2-3 basic shapes like circles and squares. Let your child try to fit shapes into holes. They'll often try the wrong hole first. When this happens, say that one doesn't fit. Let's try this one, pointing to the correct hole. This teaches that wrong attempts are just part of figuring things out.
Why It Works
Shape sorting involves trial and error, cause and effect, and problem-solving, all within your child's developmental capabilities. The frustration of a shape not fitting, followed by the satisfaction of finding the right spot, builds resilience through manageable challenge. Children who develop resilience early show better ability to recover from adversity and manage stress throughout their lives (Masten & Motti-Stefanidi, 2020).
Tips for Parents
Start with just one or two shapes to avoid overwhelming your child.
When your child tries the wrong hole multiple times, gently redirect by tapping the correct hole and saying try here.
Celebrate the process. Say things like you kept trying when your child successfully places a shape after several attempts.
Materials Needed
Simple shape sorter with 2-3 shapes
Learning Methods
Hands-On ExplorationLanguage-Rich Environment
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