Shapes Chart

Shapes for different learning stages

This set introduces familiar shapes through clear outlines, labels and simple examples. Younger children can point to and name circles, squares, triangles, rectangles and ovals. Children who are ready for more can compare sides and corners, sort shapes, and learn about pentagons, hexagons and common 3D shapes such as cubes, spheres, cones and cylinders. The posters work well as a quick reference near a writing table, maths corner or study space. Use one chart at a time with younger children, then place several together for older children to compare.

Simple ways to use the charts

At home, place a chart near your child's play area and ask them to find matching shapes in the room. A circle may appear on a plate, a rectangle on a door, and a cylinder in a bottle. In class, show a chart during circle time, then invite children to sort classroom objects by shape. Older children can draw a shape, count its sides and corners, or play a partner game where one child gives clues and the other guesses the shape. Pair this set with an Alphabet Chart or a number chart for a maths display.

Helping children notice shape details

Children often call every four-sided shape a square, so show that a square has four equal sides while a rectangle usually has two longer sides and two shorter sides. They may also think a rotated square is a diamond, even though turning it does not change its shape. Trace the outline with a finger and count sides and corners together. For 3D shapes, let your child hold safe objects and talk about flat faces, curved surfaces, rolling and stacking. Use everyday examples rather than asking children to memorise long definitions.