Repeating patterns for preschoolers
Make AB, AAB and ABC patterns with colours, sounds and actions.
Quick answer
Repeating patterns for preschoolers are simple sequences that repeat over and over again, like red-blue-red-blue or clap-snap-clap-snap. You can make them with colours, sounds, actions, or objects.
Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will be able to make and continue simple repeating patterns using at least three different types of objects or actions.
Success signs:
- You can identify a repeating pattern when you see it
- You can continue a pattern that someone else starts
- You can make your own pattern using colours, sounds, or actions
- You can explain what makes a pattern repeat
Why this matters
Patterns are everywhere in the world around us! When you see a zebra's stripes, a brick wall, or even your morning routine, you're seeing patterns. Learning to spot and create patterns helps your brain get better at thinking logically and solving problems. It also makes maths more fun and helps you understand how things work in the world.
Patterns are the building blocks for more advanced maths like multiplication, algebra, and sequences. When you understand patterns, you'll be better at predicting what comes next, which is a superpower in maths!
How it works
Patterns are made up of a sequence of things that repeat over and over. Think of it like a recipe – you need to do the same steps in the same order again and again.
Let's look at how patterns work step by step:
- Choose your pattern elements – These are the things you will repeat, like colours, sounds, or actions
- Decide the pattern rule – This is the order you will repeat them in
- Repeat the rule – Do the same sequence over and over
- Check if it's a pattern – Can you see the same sequence repeating?
Simple patterns start with just two or three things. As you get better, you can make longer and more complex patterns.
Examples you can see
Let's look at some examples of repeating patterns that you can see around you:
| Pattern Type | Example | What it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| AB Pattern | Red-blue-red-blue | Red - Blue - Red - Blue |
| AAB Pattern | Red-red-blue-red-red-blue | Red - Red - Blue - Red - Red - Blue |
| ABC Pattern | Red-blue-green-red-blue-green | Red - Blue - Green - Red - Blue - Green |
These patterns can be made with:
- Colours – like red-blue-red-blue
- Sounds – like clap-snap-clap-snap
- Actions – like jump-clap-jump-clap
- Objects – like apple-banana-apple-banana
Try making these patterns with your toys or household items!
Try it as a mini adventure
Pattern Detective Quest
You are a Pattern Detective on a mission to find all the patterns around your house! Here's your quest:
- 1st time: Look around your room and find one pattern you can see. What is it made of?
- 2nd time: Make a pattern with your toys. Use at least 3 different things.
- 3rd time: Try to continue a pattern that someone else made. Can you guess what comes next?
- 4th time: Create a new pattern using sounds or actions. What does it sound like?
- 5th time: Draw your pattern in your notebook or on paper. Can you explain it to a friend?
When you complete this quest, you'll be a Pattern Master!
Common mistakes
- Mistake: Thinking that patterns can be random or jumbled up
Why it happens: It's easy to confuse patterns with just a random set of things.
Fix: Look for the same sequence repeating over and over. If it changes each time, it's not a pattern.
- Mistake: Not recognizing that patterns can be made with sounds, actions, or objects
Why it happens: Children often think patterns must be visual or made of blocks.
Fix: Try making patterns with clapping, jumping, or even singing!
- Mistake: Getting confused about the pattern rule when continuing a pattern
Why it happens: When the pattern gets longer, it's harder to remember the exact sequence.
Fix: Say the pattern out loud, or point to each part to help you remember.
Parent and carer guide
Helping your child with patterns is easy and fun! Here are 5 ways to support your child in just 10 minutes:
- Look for patterns together – While walking, point out patterns in nature, clothing, or buildings.
- Make patterns with everyday items – Use buttons, crayons, or toys to create AB, AAB, or ABC patterns.
- Use sounds and actions – Clap, stomp, or snap to make patterns with your child.
- Encourage creativity – Let your child make their own patterns and explain them to you.
- Be patient – It's okay if they need to repeat or say the pattern out loud to remember it.
Don't worry if your child gets confused at first – pattern recognition is a skill that takes practice. Keep it playful and keep the fun!
Practice questions
- What comes next in this pattern: red-blue-red-blue-red-?
- Complete this pattern: jump-clap-jump-clap-?
- Which of these is NOT a pattern? A) red-blue-red-blue B) red-red-red-red C) red-blue-green-red-blue
- Make your own AB pattern using three different things.
- What sound would come next in this pattern: snap-clap-snap-clap-?
Answers:
- Blue
- Jump
- B) red-red-red-red
- Answers will vary – example: apple-banana-apple-banana
- Clap
FAQ
What is a repeating pattern?
A repeating pattern is a sequence of things that follow a rule and repeat over and over again.
Can patterns be made with sounds?
Yes! You can make patterns with clapping, stomping, singing, or even animal sounds.
How do I know if I made a pattern correctly?
If you can see the same sequence of things repeating, then you have made a pattern!
Why are patterns important in maths?
Patterns help you understand sequences, predict what comes next, and build the foundation for more complex maths like algebra.
What age should children start learning patterns?
Children can start learning patterns as early as 2 or 3 years old, using simple visual patterns. By 4-5, they can work with more complex patterns using sounds and actions.