Pattern Caterpillar
Ages 2–6
A caterpillar game for spotting patterns
Logic Games for Toddlers
Spotting patterns is one of the first steps in logical thinking. When a child sees that red, blue, red, blue is followed by red, they are noticing a rule and using it to predict what comes next, a skill that underpins early math, reading and problem solving.
In our logic games, children finish the patterns on a friendly caterpillar: first two colors taking turns, then longer patterns with fruit and animals. Every instruction is spoken and shown, so children who can’t read yet can play on their own.
Logic games
What your child learns
- Spotting what repeats in a pattern
- Predicting what comes next
- Finding what is missing in a sequence
- Patterns with colors and pictures: AB, AAB, ABC and more
Tips for parents
- Make patterns with everyday things: spoon, fork, spoon, fork… and ask what comes next.
- Clap and stomp a rhythm together: clap, clap, stomp, clap, clap, stomp.
- Look for patterns on clothes, tiles and fences when you’re out and about.
Logic: questions from parents
At what age do children understand patterns?
Many children can continue a simple two-part pattern, like red, blue, red, blue, between 2 and 3 years old. Around 4, most can copy and continue longer patterns such as AAB or ABC, and by 5 or 6 many make up their own patterns and spot mistakes in them.
Why are patterns important for young children?
Patterns teach children to look for rules and use them to predict, which is the heart of logical thinking. They are an early math skill linked to counting, numbers and shapes, and spotting repeated sounds and letters also helps with reading.
How can I practise patterns at home?
Build patterns with blocks, beads, crayons or snacks and let your child continue them. Make sound patterns with claps and stomps, and point out patterns on clothes, wallpaper and tiles. Once your child is confident, let them make a pattern for you to continue.
More to learn
- Colors Pop balloons to find and name colors.
- Numbers Count friendly critters and find the number.
- Shapes Sort flat shapes and spot 3D ones.
- Letters Find big and little letters.
- Weather Get Bear ready for sun, rain, snow and wind.
- Animals Guess the animal from its shadow.
- Music Play back tunes on a rainbow xylophone.
- Feelings Name feelings from faces and little stories.