This month we have been exporing three 3-D shapes and the similarities and differences between two and three dimensional shapes.  Our calendar pattern involves 2-D shapes followed by a closely related 3-D shape, for example a square is followed by a cube, and a circle is followed by a sphere. The calendar markers also include examples of each shape in the environment, giving us a chance to think of shapes in the world and contemplate whether an object is two dimensional or three dimensional. During our math time children have enjoyed working with polydrons, which are geometric manipulatives that can be connected together to create two dimensional nets that can fold up to form three dimensional shapes.

We have also really enjoyed a simple guessing game in which children try to identify a given shape by feeling it.  One child places their hands behind their back and another child chooses a shape to hand them. Using just their sense of touch they try to guess what the shape is. Not only is this fun, but it helps children contemplate the specific features of each shape as they try to name it. Does the shape have any flat or curved surfaces, does it have points or edges, would it roll?