Simple Repeating Patterns

Simple Repeating Patterns

What students learn

Students learn that a pattern is something that repeats in the same order again and again. Start with Patterns: Notice What Comes Next to hear the repeat and predict the next part.

Why it matters

Patterns help children make predictions. They also prepare students for later math ideas such as skip counting, algebra, and number rules. Patterns: Hear the Repeat Again helps students listen for the repeating piece more than once.

Learn the idea

Use claps, taps, colors, or movement to make an AB pattern. Ask the child to say what comes next and why. Then play Patterns: Build a Simple Pattern so they can copy the repeat and extend it.

Try it

Make a pattern with two sounds or two colors, like clap-stomp-clap-stomp. Ask the child to repeat it and then add one more step. If they are ready, let them invent a new pattern for you to copy.

Parent guide

Keep the pattern short and obvious at first. The goal is not speed; it is noticing the repeat. If the child makes a mistake, restart with a simpler pattern and let them build confidence one step at a time.