16mo–2.2y10 minFree playQuiet timeFamily time
Pattern Spotter Parade
A short table/floor game using everyday objects to make and notice simple repeating patterns (ABAB) while you talk about 'same', 'different', and 'next', supporting your child to watch, copy, and extend patterns in a playful way.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 6–10 everyday safe objects in two types (e.g., spoons and socks; cups and blocks; lids and toy animals)
- a tray, low table, or clear floor space
Nice to have
- a small basket for each object type (to support simple sorting)
- a book or photo with a clear visible pattern (stripes/dots) to point at
- a towel/cloth to reset the objects quickly (sweep and start again)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Talk about and help children to recognise patterns.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)