This post was contributed by Kim of Life Over C’s.
A Simple Preschool Math Activity with Straws!
Today I wanted to add to our pattern-making activity collection, and this hands-on pattern activity with paper straws is a simple preschool math activity without a lot of prep work or money. We love making patterns because not only are they a lot of fun, they help little ones practice many skills at once – particularly fine motor skills and early math skills.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy.
Straw Patterns Preschool Math Activity
Materials:
Steps to Prepare & Play:
Cut the paper straws into approximately 1″ sections to create “beads”.
Types of Simple Patterns to Make:
The age and skill-level of the children you are working with will determine the kinds of patterns you make. The very first level of patterns is simply alternating items. This is called an AB pattern.
With the straws and pony beads it would look like this: straw, bead, straw, bead, straw, bead.
Next comes AAB: straw, straw, bead.
ABBA: straw, bead, bead, straw.
ABB: straw, bead, bead
Activity Extensions:
If you want to extend the activity for an older child, you can have them alternate patterns on the paper straws or introduce a different kind of bead to the set.
Patterns are also great for introducing rhythm like drum beats. As you are creating the pattern, you can say the items out loud and you will notice a musical pattern emerge.
Working with small items like beads and pipe cleaners is also great for building fine-motor skills and hand-eye coordination. This is especially important for children who are just starting to write or have poor muscle tone in their hands.
The great thing about this patterning set is that you can store it in a zip top bag to make a low-
prep, busy bag or quiet time activity. I like to use these with my youngest daughter while I’m working school with the older kids. She loves fine-motor activities!
More Patterning Activities from Life Over C’s:
- Patterning with Play Dough and Cupcake Toppers
- Free Transportation Themed Patterning Printable Pack
Have you ever made patterns with your preschooler? If so, what did you use? What is your favorite preschool math activity to do with your little one? Share in the comments below!
More Preschool Math Ideas from B-Inspired Mama:
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This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy.
Meet the Author: Kim of Life Over C's
Kim is a homeschooling mother of 4 beautiful daughters. They are missionaries in the Republic of Georgia and enjoy travelling the United States as well. She shares their adventures and homeschool fun on Life Over C's.
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