Light Table Shape Matching with Magnetic Tiles & Dry Erase Markers

Fun & Engaging Light Table Activity for Kids

Looking for a hands-on way to teach shapes, spatial awareness, and problem-solving? Try this Light Table Shape Matching activity using magnetic tiles and dry erase markers! It’s a fantastic way to explore geometry, fine motor skills, and creativity—all while playing with light!

This activity starts simple and can be easily leveled up for more advanced learning. Plus, stay tuned for our next posts with even more exciting variations!

Materials Needed

✔ Magnetic tiles (various shapes)
✔ Dry erase marker
✔ IKEA Flisat Sensory Table (this is even optional)

✔ IKEA Trofast bin

✔ VIPrint Studio light table insert

✔ LED light (puck light or light bar )

For best results, 6 puck lights or 2 light bars recommended.

How to Play: Basic Shape Matching

1️⃣ Trace the Shapes:

• Place a single magnetic tile on the light table insert.
• Use a dry erase marker to trace around it.
• Remove the tile and admire the outlined shape!

2️⃣ Match the Shapes:

• Hand your child the same shape and encourage them to place it over the traced outline.
• Repeat with different tiles to reinforce shape recognition.

📌 Tip: Start with simple shapes like squares and triangles before moving on to complex ones!

Level Up: Shape Combinations!

Want to make it more challenging? Try these upgrades:

🔺 Mix & Match Shapes – Trace two or more tiles together to create new forms (e.g., two triangles forming a diamond). Let kids figure out which tiles fit!

🧩 Pattern Matching – Create a series of shapes and let kids find the right magnetic tile to complete the pattern.

🌟 Guess the Shape! – Trace a shape without showing the tile. Can your child guess what it is before matching?

📌 Advanced Play: Trace a partial shape and challenge kids to find the missing piece!

Why This Activity is Amazing

✔ Encourages Shape Recognition – Great for early geometry skills.
✔ Develops Fine Motor Skills – Tracing and matching help with pre-writing and dexterity.
✔ Boosts Critical Thinking – Combining shapes improves problem-solving abilities.
✔ Engages in Open-Ended Play – No wrong way to explore!

🌟 Next up: More light table activities that take shape exploration to the next level! Stay tuned!

Would your little one enjoy this activity? Let us know in the comments! 👇✨