Patterning

THINK - MATH

Encourage preschoolers to identify, extend, and create patterns

At A Glance

Children enjoy sorting and classifying objects, which is the foundation for patterning! Preschoolers can identify patterns in many forms, like movement patterns during games (e.g., nod-nod-wave, nod-nod-wave) or auditory patterns in songs (e.g., clap-whistle, clap-whistle). Often, they can predict what comes next in a pattern to keep it going.

We can support children’s patterning skills by prompting them to sort objects, label patterns, and extend patterns.

What It Looks Like

A quick glance at ways you can help preschoolers develop patterning skills

Label the Characteristics of Objects

Help children attend to the various characteristics of objects, like this educator does. By calling attention to similar shapes found in everyday objects, these children are able to practice classifying and sorting.

Help Children Recognize Patterns

Notice how this educator creates a pattern, and then points out the sequence (green triangle, blue triangle). Once the child recognizes the pattern, the educator encourages them to extend it.

Invite Children to Extend Patterns

Encourage children to think about what would come next in a pattern, like this educator does. Notice how children have an opportunity to identify the pattern and figure out how to extend it further.

SUPPORTING MATH SKILLS THROUGH BOOKS

Bracelets for Bina’s Brothers

Written by Rajani LaRocca and illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat, this book follows Bina as she tries to find the perfect patterns to make colorful bracelets for Raksha Bandhan, a celebration of brothers and sisters.

SUPPORTING MATH SKILLS THROUGH BOOKS

Pitter Pattern

Written and illustrated by Joyce Hesselberth, this story follows Lu as she discovers patterns in her everyday life. Lu spots patterns in music, activities, and many other unexpected places.

Activity Cards for Preschool Classrooms

Part of the STREAMin³ curriculum, these activity cards provide simple and fun ways to support children's patterning skills

Pattern Hunt

Patterns are all around us! Draw children’s attention to the patterns in their environment.

Download Pattern Hunt

Pattern Movements

Move your body to make patterns and encourage children to follow along.

download Pattern Movements

People Sort!

Challenge children to sort themselves by colors, patterns, or types of clothing.

download People sort!

Steady Beat Patterns

Make a beat pattern while listening to music with children.

download Steady Beat Patterns

Get Our Resource Guide

Includes questions and activities to guide your use of the videos, book suggestions, and activity cards featured for each of the Core Skills