A rectangle is a flat shape with four straight sides and four corners. Two sides are long, and the other two sides are shorter but match each other. Children start by looking at everyday objects shaped like rectangles, such as doors or books.
Use real-life objects to connect the shape with something familiar. Encourage children to trace the sides with a finger while saying the shape name.
Children need to see how a rectangle is different from other shapes. Comparing it to circles, squares, and triangles builds recognition and confidence in shape sorting.
Use side-by-side comparisons. Ask children to count sides and corners to tell rectangles apart from other shapes.
Sorting helps children organize shapes into groups. They learn that rectangles belong in the same group because they have the same features.
Begin with two groups only to keep sorting simple. Add more shapes when children are confident with rectangles.
Children can find rectangles in the classroom, at home, and outdoors. This real-world search makes the shape more meaningful and easier to remember.
Take photos or make a small list of rectangle objects. Connecting math to daily life builds curiosity and memory.
Describing shapes out loud helps children remember their features. Use words like long, short, straight, and corner to explain rectangles clearly.
Encourage children to repeat shape facts and trace along the sides. Speaking and touching reinforces learning.