This printable pattern block numbers activity is a fun way to teach young kids about number recognition and shape recognition! This activity is the perfect addition to your favorite low-prep activities, whether you’re a parent or teacher. Preschoolers will love learning about various shapes and how they come together to create the corresponding number. Grab your FREE printable below!
What are Pattern Blocks?
Pattern blocks are geometric shapes, including triangles, squares, hexagons, and rhombuses. Generally, they are made out of either plastic or wood. Each shape is assigned a specific color to help with recognition and classification.
Pattern activities help children understand symmetry, rotation, and tessellations, while puzzle-solving tasks enhance their spatial reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Additionally, combining and comparing pattern blocks provides an easy introduction to concepts like area, perimeter, and even fractions as kids visually explore how different shapes can be used to form more complex shapes.
Pattern blocks are typically introduced and used in kindergarten through second grade (K-2). These blocks are well-suited for this age group because they provide a hands-on and visual way to explore basic geometric concepts, spatial reasoning, and fundamental math skills.
Check out more free printable pattern block templates!
They can be used with preschoolers, but the approach differs slightly. While preschoolers might not engage in the same complex activities as older children, they can still benefit from simple and engaging pattern block activities that promote hands-on exploration and basic learning concepts.
Preschoolers can start with activities that focus on shape recognition and basic sorting. They can learn about different shapes by identifying and matching pattern blocks to corresponding outlines or pictures. Creating simple patterns using a few blocks can also be enjoyable and educational.
Additionally, preschoolers can explore the sensory aspect of pattern blocks by manipulating and arranging them to create their own designs. Open-ended play encourages creativity and fine motor skill development.
Below we show you how to use the printable pattern block numbers to create a fun and hands-on sensory bin. This activity is perfect for younger children in preschool who are just beginning to learn basic math skills!
Learn more about sensory bins here!
What’s Included in This Pattern Block Numbers Activity?
Within this printable activity, there is a set of pattern block templates ranging from numbers 1-10, each with a different number on them. The numbers are created from different shapes, such as squares, triangles, parallelograms, and rhombuses. The purpose of this activity is for young children to match the correct shape to the right block to complete the number.
Free Printable Pattern Block Number Cards
How To Turn It Into A Number Sensory Bin
Supplies:
- Paper
- Laminating Pouches (optional)
- Laminator (optional)
- Pattern Blocks
- Math Counters
- Sensory bin filler (see our list of favorite sensory bin fillers)
Instructions:
STEP 1: Print and laminate the pattern block number mats.
STEP 2: Fill a sensory bin with dyed rice or similar filler. Here’s our easy recipe for how to color rice.
STEP 3: Place magnetic pattern blocks into the sensory bin.
STEP 4: Use the printable pattern block number mats to build the numbers.
STEP 5: Use the math counters or pattern blocks to show the number in the ten frames.
More Fun Preschool Math Activities
- Shape Activities
- Color By Number
- Pattern Block Templates
- Ten Frame Printable
- Preschool Math Printables
- Snap Cubes Number Mats
Printable Preschool Bundle Pack
Get ready to explore this year with our growing Preschool STEM Bundle!
What’s Included:
There are five fun preschool themes to get you started. This is an ” I can explore” series!
Each unit contains approximately 15 activities, with instructions and templates as needed. Hands-on activities are provided to keep it fun and exciting. This includes sensory bins, experiments, games, and more! Easy supplies keep it low cost and book suggestions add the learning time.
