Hands-On Logic & Sorting Activity 🔢🧩

🧠 Thinking, Sorting & Matching Made Fun

This pattern sorting activity is a simple yet powerful way to build early math and logical thinking skills. Using the sorting insert, children read the instruction in the small box and search for the matching toy to place in the larger box.

For example:
If the small box says 1, your child finds anything that shows one (one hole, one side, one piece, one dot, etc.).
If it says 2, they find something that shows two (two holes, two bumps, two parts, etc.).
If it says 3, they might choose an object with three features — like a triangle with 3 sides or a block with 3 dots.

There isn’t just one correct answer — children observe, think, and decide what matches!

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🧺 Materials

✔ VIPrint Studio Sorting Insert

✔ VIPrint Studio Light Table Insert

✔ Dry erase marker

✔ Assorted toys (LEGO pieces, blocks, shapes, loose parts)

✔ Optional: IKEA Flisat Sensory Table for setup

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💡 How to Play

1. On the 3 small boxes, write simple instructions such as:
   • 1
   • 2
   • 3
2. Explain that the small box gives a clue number.
3. Invite your child to search for an object that matches that number in any way.
4. Place the matching object into the large box on top of its clue.
5. Encourage them to explain why their choice matches the number.

Erase and rewrite new numbers anytime for a fresh challenge!

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🎯 Learning Benefits

• 🔢 Builds early number sense and counting skills
• 👀 Strengthens observation and comparison
• 🧠 Develops logical reasoning and flexible thinking
• ✋ Improves fine motor control during placement
• 💬 Encourages math language (count, side, part, piece, feature)

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🧩 Extension Ideas

• Write shape names instead of numbers
• Try larger numbers (4, 5, 6) for older children
• Add pattern clues like AB or AAB
• Let your child create the clues for you to solve

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🧽 Cleanup Tip

Simply remove the items and wipe the insert clean with a dry erase eraser or damp cloth.
If marker ink dries, use a little soap and water to restore the surface.

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✨ Closing

This pattern sorting board encourages flexible thinking and creative problem-solving. With open-ended matching and endless possibilities, it turns everyday objects into meaningful math exploration — playful, engaging, and full of discovery!