Items found around the house

Start the activity by asking your child to help you put away laundry. He can sort it into different groups: light/dark clothes, white/colored socks, winter/summer clothes, or each family member’s clothes. Another time, ask your child to help you sort groceries: paper products, dairy products, meats, produce, canned foods, etc. Further challenge him by asking him to sort canned foods into fruits and vegetables. Next, get rid of the pile of shoes by the front door! Ask your child to match each pair of shoes and then sort by color, size, and purpose (i.e. athletic, work, dress up). After doing the dishes, ask your child to help sort the clean silverware before putting it away (spoons, forks, serving utensils, etc.). You can also work with your child to reorganize his art supplies. Ask, “How can crayons and markers be sorted?” (broken, whole, width, length, color, type) and have him sort them into different cups.

Have your child help decide how to sort and categorize things.