You are Here:

Math Patterns - Preschool Math Activities

Learning about math patterns is one of the requirements prior to entering kindergarten. When teaching young children about patterns it is best to explain to them the concept and follow with a concrete example. I begin by telling them that a pattern is a sequence that repeats itself. My example in class is: "boy, girl, boy, girl. Now what should come next?"

Introduce math patterns slowly with a sequence of two and then build up to sequences of three and more.

Preschoolers who master the understanding of math patterns are able to:

1. Recognize patterns

2. Create patterns

3. Transfer the concept from one medium to the next. (Body patterns, drawing patterns, building patterns)

Math Activities T.I.M.E.:

Pattern Detective

Look for patterns around the house. Does your carpet have a pattern? Perhaps the bedspread or the curtains. When you find a pattern say it out load. "Blue stripe, white stripe, blue stripe, ..."

Word Pattern

You can create a word pattern. Begin with two words such as: "Mommy, daddy. Mommy, daddy." Later, add a third word: "Mommy, daddy, me. Mommy, daddy, me."

People Pattern

You need a number of people to make this pattern. We play it in class everyday. When the children sit down in a circle, they make a pattern of: "Boy, girl. Boy, girl..." You can do the same at home with stuffed animals or with objects that are big and small.

Movement Pattern

Use your body to create patterns. For example: "Clap, stomp. Clap, stomp." Or "Clap, clap, snap. Clap, clap, snap." The options are endless and the more creative you are the more fun it will be for your child.

Create a Bead Pattern

Using beads you can create a pattern in a necklace or bracelet.