Preschool Pattern Play: Building Mathematical Thinking Through Everyday Discovery

Why Patterns Matter in Early Learning

Patterns are everywhere in our world – from the changing seasons to the rhythm of our daily routines. For preschoolers, understanding patterns isn’t just about recognizing repeating shapes or colors; it’s about developing crucial cognitive skills that will support their mathematical journey throughout life.

Learning Outcomes

By engaging in pattern play, children will:

• Recognize and create simple patterns using everyday objects
• Develop early algebraic thinking through pattern prediction
• Strengthen sorting and classification skills
• Build vocabulary related to mathematical concepts
• Enhance problem-solving abilities through pattern exploration

Understanding Pattern Development in Preschoolers

The Pattern Recognition Journey

Children’s pattern recognition typically develops in stages:

1. Pattern Recognition (3-3.5 years)
   • Identifying simple repeating patterns
   • Copying basic patterns with support
2. Pattern Extension (3.5-4 years)
   • Continuing patterns independently
   • Recognizing patterns in different contexts
3. Pattern Creation (4-5 years)
   • Designing original patterns
   • Transferring pattern concepts across materials

Everyday Pattern Play Activities

1. Kitchen Pattern Adventures

Materials needed:

• Fresh fruit pieces (e.g., apple slices, grape halves, banana rounds)
• Various dry pasta shapes (e.g., penne, bow ties, shells)
• Different colored/shaped cereal pieces
• Large plates or trays
• Optional: Pattern cards with food items
• Optional: Camera for documentation

Learning Objectives:

• Create and extend simple patterns
• Develop fine motor skills
• Practice color and shape recognition
• Build mathematical vocabulary

Implementation:

1. Setup (5-10 minutes)
   • Prepare fruit pieces of similar size
   • Sort pasta or cereal into separate containers
   • Create a clean, flat workspace
   • Have examples ready if needed
2. Introduction (5 minutes)
   • Show children a simple pattern (e.g., grape-apple-grape-apple)
   • Use clear language: “Look at my pattern. Grape, apple, grape, apple”
   • Ask: “What comes next in my pattern?”
3. Guided Practice (10-15 minutes)
   • Start with simple AB patterns (grape-apple)
   • Model the pattern-making process
   • Use verbal pattern descriptions: “First I put a grape, then an apple”
   • Encourage children to continue the pattern
   • Ask prediction questions: “What do you think goes here?”
4. Independent Exploration (15-20 minutes)
   • Let children create their own patterns
   • Provide support as needed
   • Take photos of completed patterns
   • Ask children to describe their patterns

Extension Ideas:

• Create patterns with three elements (ABC patterns)
• Make patterns based on size (big grape, small grape)
• Sort items before making patterns
• Create and solve “What’s Missing?” pattern puzzles
• Make edible pattern bracelets with cereal

Tips for Success:

• Keep food pieces similar in size
• Use high-contrast colors
• Start with just two items before introducing more
• Make it playful – patterns can be silly!
• Document patterns before eating

2. Movement Pattern Games

Materials needed:

• Open space (at least 2m x 2m per child)
• Optional: Musical instruments (drums, tambourines, bells)
• Optional: Visual pattern cards showing movements
• Optional: Colored spot markers or hoops
• Recording device for playback

Learning Objectives:

• Connect physical movement to pattern concepts
• Develop gross motor skills
• Build auditory pattern recognition
• Enhance memory and sequence recall

Implementation:

1. Space Setup (5 minutes)
   • Clear the activity area
   • Place visual markers if using
   • Ensure enough space between children
2. Warm-up (5-10 minutes)
   • Start with simple rhythmic activities
   • Clap patterns together
   • Echo simple movement sequences
   • Practice basic movements individually
3. Pattern Introduction (10 minutes)
   • Begin with two-movement patterns
   • Model clearly: “Watch my pattern: Clap, stomp, clap, stomp”
   • Use verbal cues: “When I clap, you clap. When I stomp, you stomp”
   • Practice each movement separately before combining
4. Pattern Practice (15-20 minutes) Progressive pattern examples:
   • Simple patterns:
     • Clap, stomp, clap, stomp
     • Jump, twirl, jump, twirl
     • Pat head, shoulders, head, shoulders
   • Complex patterns:
     • Clap, clap, stomp, clap, clap, stomp
     • Jump, twist, twist, jump, twist, twist
     • Step right, step left, clap, step right, step left, clap
5. Group Activity (10-15 minutes)
   • Form a circle
   • Each child adds a movement to create a group pattern
   • Practice following longer sequences together

Extension Ideas:

• Add vocal sounds to movements
• Incorporate directional movements (forward, backward, sideways)
• Create pattern stories through movement
• Use props (scarves, ribbons, balls)
• Record and play back patterns for children to follow

Tips for Success:

• Keep movements simple and age-appropriate
• Use clear, consistent verbal cues
• Provide visual supports when needed
• Allow for movement modifications
• Celebrate creative pattern variations

3. Nature Pattern Collection

Materials needed:

• Collection bags or baskets
• Sorting trays or muffin tins
• Magnifying glasses
• Natural materials (leaves, sticks, stones, flowers)
• Camera for documentation
• Paper and clipboards
• Clear contact paper (optional)
• Glue and cardboard (optional)

Learning Objectives:

• Identify patterns in nature
• Develop classification skills
• Practice environmental awareness
• Strengthen observation skills

Implementation:

1. Preparation (10 minutes)
   • Discuss safety rules for collecting
   • Show examples of natural materials
   • Distribute collection materials
   • Explain collection boundaries
2. Nature Walk (20-30 minutes)
   • Guide children to look for:
     • Different colored leaves
     • Various sized stones
     • Interesting sticks
     • Safe natural items
   • Encourage careful collection
   • Point out natural patterns (leaf veins, tree bark)
3. Sorting Activity (15 minutes)
   • Sort materials by:
     • Type (leaves, stones, sticks)
     • Color (green, brown, yellow)
     • Size (small, medium, large)
     • Texture (smooth, rough)
4. Pattern Creation (20-30 minutes)
   • Demonstrate simple patterns with materials
   • Create patterns on trays or paper
   • Photograph patterns before preserving
   • Make permanent displays with contact paper

Extension Ideas:

• Create natural mandalas
• Make bark rubbings to find patterns
• Press leaves and flowers
• Create pattern books with photos
• Make nature pattern cards for future use

Tips for Success:

• Check area for safety beforehand
• Discuss nature preservation
• Have backup materials ready
• Store collections for future use
• Consider seasonal variations

4. Pattern Block Play

Materials needed:

• Pattern blocks or similar shapes
• Pattern cards with designs
• Large paper for recording
• Mirrors (optional)
• Light table (optional)
• Camera for documentation
• Drawing materials
• Sorting containers

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize geometric shapes
• Create and extend patterns
• Develop spatial awareness
• Build problem-solving skills

Implementation:

1. Setup (10 minutes)
   • Sort blocks by shape and color
   • Prepare pattern cards if using
   • Create workspace for each child
   • Display example patterns
2. Introduction (10 minutes)
   • Explore block properties
   • Name shapes and colors
   • Demonstrate pattern creation
   • Show how shapes fit together
3. Guided Exploration (15-20 minutes) Progressive activities:
   • Simple color patterns (red, blue, red, blue)
   • Shape patterns (triangle, square, triangle, square)
   • Combined patterns (red triangle, blue square)
   • Symmetrical patterns
   • Rotating patterns
4. Creative Pattern Time (20-30 minutes)
   • Free exploration with blocks
   • Pattern creation and extension
   • Documentation of designs
   • Pattern sharing and discussion

Extension Ideas:

• Create pattern puzzles
• Make symmetrical designs
• Use mirrors to explore reflection
• Draw patterns on paper
• Create 3D patterns
• Make pattern stories

Tips for Success:

• Start with limited block choices
• Use pattern cards as guides
• Encourage pattern verbalization
• Allow for creative expression
• Save designs through photos

Assessment Guidelines

Observable Indicators

Look for children who can:

• Identify the core unit of a pattern
• Predict what comes next in a sequence
• Transfer patterns across different materials
• Create and explain their own patterns

Documentation Strategies

• Take photographs of children’s pattern work
• Record their pattern descriptions
• Note their problem-solving approaches
• Collect samples of pattern creation

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: Pattern Complexity

Solution: Start with simple two-element patterns (AB) before introducing more complex sequences. Use high-contrast materials and clear visual differences.

Challenge 2: Maintaining Focus

Solution: Keep pattern activities short and engaging. Incorporate movement and music to maintain interest.

Challenge 3: Transfer of Learning

Solution: Use various materials to demonstrate the same pattern concept. Help children recognize patterns in different contexts.

Extending Pattern Learning

Cross-Curricular Connections

• Literacy: Pattern stories and rhyming books
• Music: Rhythmic patterns and songs
• Art: Visual patterns in paintings and drawings
• Science: Patterns in nature and seasonal changes

Family Engagement

Encourage families to:

• Look for patterns during daily routines
• Create patterns with household items
• Play pattern games during travel
• Document pattern discoveries

Supporting Diverse Learners

Adaptations and Modifications

• Use tactile materials for sensory learners
• Incorporate visual supports and pattern cards
• Provide verbal pattern descriptions
• Allow for multiple ways to demonstrate understanding

Pattern play in the preschool years lays a crucial foundation for mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through engaging, play-based experiences, children develop an intuitive understanding of mathematical concepts that will support their future learning.

Remember that every child develops at their own pace, and pattern recognition skills will emerge naturally through repeated exposure and playful exploration. The key is to maintain a fun, pressure-free environment where mathematical thinking can flourish.

Recommended External Resources

Australian Resources

• Early Childhood Australia – Pattern Play Resources
• Cool Australia – Early Mathematics Activities

International Resources

• Math at Home (PBS Kids)