Learning shapes? Try this magnetic shapes sensory activity at home!
I love a good hands on activity for kids, especially one that helps them learn. Learning shapes is one of the fundamental skills that every child must have so why not make it fun?! This easy to set up sensory activity is perfect for little kids who really just want to play all day and for parents who want their kids to learn through play!
Repetition, repetition, repetition. Seeing things over and over is how your kids learn. So the more fun activities and games you create, the easier it is for kids to retain the information. This shape matching game is great for learning the names of shapes and it’s also a super fun sensory activity using colored rice!
Here’s How To Make A Sensory Game For Shape Recognition
Supplies:
- Magnetic Tiles (several different shapes)
- Baking Sheet
- Dry Erase Marker or Sharpie
- Tub or Bin (check the dollar store)
- Colored Rice (check out how to make some here!)
Name Those Shapes!
Start by grabbing some of your kids’ magnetic tiles. Find several different shapes and place them on the back of your baking sheet. Trace around each shape with a marker.
*I used a dry erase marker for this activity so that I could easily clean the baking sheet and use it for cooking again. You can also grab a dollar store baking sheet and use a sharpie if you want to leave this activity set up for your kids all the time.
In a large tub or bin pour a few cups of dyed rice and bury your magnetic shapes. Have your kids dig in the rice to find the shapes and match them to the outlines on the baking sheet.
Make sure to name each shape as they find it in the rice sensory bin. Remember repetition is key!
Sensory activities are always a great learning tool for kids especially toddlers and preschoolers. My daughter did this shape matching game about 4 times before simply playing in the rice! I’ll take it because it kept her busy for a solid 30 minutes. I also love that removing the magna-tiles from the baking sheet is an easy fine motor activity to strengthen hands!