An easy way to practice shapes and fine motor skills is with a Shape Sorter! I bought these foam 3D shapes at Michaels Craft Store many years ago, but these 3D geometric shapes would be a good option if you’re interested in creating this activity.
The kids love playing with them because they are soft and a little squishy. I put them in a tub for them to play with. Wes liked putting them into containers, throwing them, and sitting in the tub.
I came up with an activity to do with the little cylinders and cubes. First, I found an oatmeal canister.
Then I put two shapes on top, drew around them, and cut around the outlines.
The goal of the game is to put the correct shape in the correct hole.
At first, he didn’t look where he was putting the shapes, but after playing with them for a while, he caught on to where each shape went. It was fun to watch him learn!
Big brother wanted to help out, too.
Every time he got the shape in he would say “YAY” and clap. It was too cute!
I love how inexpensive this activity is. We will use these shapes for other activities, such as sorting by color and making patterns. Hope you’ll get out to Michael’s and grab yourself a bag or two–your kids will love them!
Will this activity be good for a 5 year old that has autism?
Yes, it would!
I am a manager at Michaels. The foam shapes described above are indeed a seasonal item, and therefore cannot be found all year around so please do not be discouraged when you are unable to find them in our stores. We usually carry it for back to school but cannot guarantee that it will be sold every year. Great idea though! Very creative and excellent for the kiddos 🙂
I was wondering what the official name was on the packaging of those shapes? I was in Michaels today and couldn’t find them. I asked someone and she had no idea what I was talking about. Thank you.
The brand name is Art Minds. I wonder if they are just in certain Michaels stores. I cannot find them online anywhere!! But I know I just saw them at a Michaels store by me in Iowa. I’m sorry you didn’t have any luck finding them! Here is an alternative (with more shapes) found on Amazon:
Soft Foam Geometric Shapes
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Thank you so much! I’ll look again.
They are a seasonal item at Michael’s, only in with back to school items.
I totally didn’t realize they sold those for such a good price! Thanks for sharing that detail. I love this modified shape sorter idea for toddlers. The preschool-focused shape sorters can be a little too challenge for the youngest crowd. Thanks!