Your Child Will Learn
How to notice size differences between objects
Here’s What to Do
- Gather 3 round containers that “nest” inside each other (i.e. a small container fits inside a medium container, and the medium container fits inside a large container). It could be 3 differently sized measuring cups, 3 differently sized round food storage containers, or a round nesting/stacking toy.
- First, let me practice pulling apart and putting together two same-sized paper cups. This can help me get the idea of fitting things inside each other without having to worry about sizes.
- Next, give me the smallest and largest nesting cups. When I am able to figure out which cup goes inside the other, let me try two cups closer in size.
- After I can easily nest two cups, let me try three.
Put PEER Into Action
PAUSE
- Sit with me on the floor and give me a hug.
ENGAGE
- “Can you fit one of these cups inside the other?”
- Use size words to describe what I’m doing: “Yes! You fit the smaller cup inside the bigger cup!”
ENCOURAGE
- Let me explore how nesting cups fit together through trial and error. Wait for me to try a few times on my own before offering help.
- If I need an extra hint, try lining the cups side by side according to size. Or, give me the smallest and middle cup first, and then give me the largest cup once I’ve nested the first two.
REFLECT
- Do you think you gave me the right amount of help in solving this problem? What might you try differently next time I’m exploring a problem through trial and error?
Not Quite Ready
Help me practice nesting two differently sized cups.
Ready for More
Help me practice nesting four square or rectangle-shaped boxes.
As Your Child Masters This Skill
They will be able to nest three round containers into each other.
Time to Complete
5-10 minutes
Materials Needed
3 round containers that “nest” inside each other (like 3 differently sized measuring cups, 3 differently sized round food storage containers, or a round nesting/stacking toy)