Shapes help children identify and organize visual information. Almost everything in this world can be broken down into shapes visually. Shapes are everywhere – the sun is circular in shape, a bus is a long rectangle, Rubik’s cube is a cube.  It helps them learn skills in day-to-day life, it is thus essential for kids to identify different shapes.

Importance of teaching 2D shapes to kids

Learning 2D shapes is a fundamental step in early childhood education. It helps kids develop spatial awareness, problem-solving skills, and a foundation for geometry. These 2D shape sorting mats are a fun and interactive way to teach kids about shapes while keeping them engaged.

Shape Sorting Practice Worksheets

The following flashcards are useful when teaching kids about different types of shapes.

1.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

2. The task is simple. Children have to sort the shapes on the mats. Download and print the flashcards and cut them out for children to identify and sort different shapes.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

3. This is a nonagon. Nonagon is a nine-sided polygon.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

4. A star is a polygon. It is a non-convex polygon.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

5.  Ovals are squished circles. It is a shape like an egg.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

6. A rectangle is a special case of a parallelogram in which each pair of adjacent sides are perpendicular to each other.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

7. This is an octagon. An octagon is an eight-sided polygon.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

8. This is a hexagon. A hexagon is a six-sided polygon.

2D Shape Sorting Mats

9. This is a triangle. A triangle is a closed shape with three angles, three sides and three vertices.

10. Wikipedia defines a circle as a shape consisting of all points in a plane that are at a given distance from a given point, the center; equivalently it is the curve traced out by a point that moves in a plane so that its distance from a given point is constant.

 

11. This is a square. A square is a closed, two-dimensional shape with four equal sides.

12. This is a pentagon. A pentagon is a five-sided polygon.

Download these flashcards and use the mats to allow children learn about different types of shapes!

Benefits of Using 2D Shape Sorting Mats

  • Improves shape recognition and sorting skills.
  • Enhances fine motor skills through hands-on activities.
  • Encourages independent learning and creativity.
  • Perfect for classroom and home use.

How to Use the Sorting Mats

Step-by-step instructions for parents and teachers:

  1. Print the mats on sturdy paper or laminate them for durability.
  2. Cut out the shape cards and mix them up.
  3. Ask the child to sort the cards onto the correct mat.
  4. Use the activity to discuss the properties of each shape (e.g., sides, angles, and vertices).

Additional Activities with 2D Shapes

Complementary activities to reinforce learning:

  • Shape Hunt: Ask kids to find objects around the house that match the shapes on the mats.
  • Shape Art: Use the mats as a guide to create artwork using cut-out shapes.
  • Memory Game: Print two sets of shape cards and play a matching game.

FAQs

  • What age group is this activity suitable for?
    This activity is ideal for preschoolers and kindergarteners (ages 3-6).
  • Can I use these mats for group activities?
    Yes, these mats are perfect for both individual and group learning.
  • Are there other resources available for teaching shapes?
    Yes, check out our [3D Shapes Sorting Mats] or [Shape Flashcards] for more learning tools.

Download these 2D shape sorting mats today and make learning shapes fun and interactive for your kids! Don’t forget to explore our other educational resources for more engaging activities.