Materials
Teddy Bear Counters
Ice Cube Tray
Directions
Place several teddy bear counters in a small basket or container. If you are just introducing repeating patterns to your toddler, create a simple pattern using the teddy counters on the top row of the ice cube tray. Then invite your child to copy what you did by placing the same colors of teddy bear counters in the bottom row of the tray. Say the pattern together. Are they both the same? Continue to repeat this lesson until your child can easily copy patterns.
Next, you may want to start a pattern with the counters and invite your child to extend your pattern, filling the ice cube tray with a teddy bear in each section. Check the pattern by pointing and saying it out loud.
The last step is to encourage your child to generate his or her own patterns. Find other materials around the house that can be used to create patterns (e.g. buttons, silverware, old keys, cereal, etc.)
Have fun looking for patterns in the environment and discovering patterns on clothing, and in books, songs, and poems.