PRINT AND PLAY / 02 / PATTERNS
Make a repeating pattern
Build a simple sequence, find the part that repeats and invite someone else to continue it.
Give it a try.
- Draw circle, square, circle, square. Say or point to the shapes as you go.
- Invite the child to choose what comes next. Give them time to notice, and model another repeat if they want help.
- Draw a loop around one circle-and-square pair. Show how that little part appears again.
- Take turns making a new pattern for each other. Try a quiet tap-and-pause pattern if drawing is not the preferred activity.
A QUESTION TO EXPLORE“Which little part keeps coming back?”
A SMALLER START
Keep it simple.
Repeat just two movements together, or copy a two-shape example side by side.
IF THEY WANT MORE
Take it further.
Try circle, circle, square. Leave a gap and work out what belongs there.
MAKE ROOM FOR EVERYONE
Find their way in.
Give the pattern both a visual cue and a spoken or movement cue. Sound is optional; do not require clapping or tapping.
Something to remember.
Our pattern was… The repeating part was… We changed it by…
An optional conversation or paper note. There is no score, account or information to submit.