Volume 16

I Spy Classification: First model for your child by saying “ I spy something that is round and flat” (clock) or “I spy something that has 4 legs that is smaller than a car” (dog). This activity helps your child figure out how to recognize an object’s attributes and sort objects into groups with similar attributes. Being able to group by number, shape, or measurement helps develop your child’s mathematical thinking. Grouping by color, texture, or hardness will introduce your child to scientific classification.

Sorting: Invite your child to help you with some household tasks that involve sorting. For example, he could help you organize clean laundry, put away dishes, or straighten toys. As you sort, continue to talk through the process with your child. For example, “all the round plates go here” or “put the white socks together in this drawer”.  Use attributes like length, color, and texture to explain why things get put together.