What you need
- Blocks, tiles, LEGO-style bricks or coloured paper shapes
- A flat play space
- Optional pattern cards from the Starter Pack
How to play
- Choose two or three pieces that look clearly different.
- Build a short row where the child can see it.
- Say, “Can you make one like mine?”
- Wait and let the child compare.
- Talk about what is the same or different without immediately correcting.
Start with an easy pattern
Try red-blue-red-blue or square-circle-square-circle. The goal is first to understand “make the same,” not to memorise a long sequence.
Skills supported
- Visual attention and discrimination
- Matching and sequencing
- Working memory
- Planning and problem solving
- Language such as first, next, same and different
Make it easier
Use two pieces, place the child’s building area directly below the model, or build one piece at a time together.
Make it harder
Add a fifth piece, change both colour and shape, or show the pattern briefly and cover it. Ask the child to create a pattern for you to copy.
Safety and limits
Use age-appropriate pieces in good condition and supervise according to the child’s needs. Small blocks and magnets can be serious ingestion hazards. Follow product warnings, keep damaged items out of use and choose larger alternatives for children who mouth objects.
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
Which blocks work best?
Any safe pieces with clear colours or shapes can work.
How many pieces should I start with?
Two or three pieces are enough for a first attempt.
