A Shape Walk: Compare Flat Pictures and Real Objects

A preschool shape walk can connect familiar outlines with objects children see every day. Use careful language: a round plate may have a circular face, but the whole object is not a flat drawing. Looking together can make these differences interesting rather than confusing.

Choose one outline to notice

Start with a clear picture of a circle, triangle or rectangle. Find a safe place to look for a similar outline. Point to the relevant face or edge instead of saying that every part of the object is the same shape.

Keep the adult responsible for movement and supervision during the walk. Children do not need to touch or climb toward an example.

Ask comparison questions

• Where do you see straight sides?
• Which part looks curved?
• Does the outline change when we look from another position?
• What is similar to the picture we brought?

Avoid rejecting an example simply because it is not oriented like a classroom card. Turn the picture and compare again.

Bring the observation into building

Use suitable blocks or drawing materials to revisit an outline your child noticed. A window shape might inspire a drawing; a curved object might lead to a conversation about rolling.

You do not need to introduce every geometric term in one outing. Describe accurately and follow the child's questions.

Should I call a ball a circle?

Explain that a ball is a three-dimensional object and a circle is a flat shape. Keep the explanation simple and show the difference when possible.

What if the object is only approximately shaped?

Say that it looks similar. Everyday examples can be imperfect while still inviting a useful comparison.

For more about the age-based classroom, explore the Children’s Land preschool program and find a Chicagoland location. Bring your child’s interests and questions to a conversation about current routines and learning experiences.

Related reading: Setting the Stage for Early Math Skills in Preschool.