Most children typically begin sorting objects into groups between 19 and 24 months of age.
The Development of Sorting Skills in Toddlers
Sorting objects is an important milestone in a child’s development. It's a fundamental step toward pattern recognition, which is a core math skill. This skill emerges as toddlers begin to grasp the concept of grouping similar items together. According to the reference, somewhere between 19 and 24 months, toddlers start to learn how to sort and match identical objects into groups. Usually, this begins with sorting three groups, each with three to five objects.
Here's a breakdown of what to expect:
- Age Range: 19 to 24 months is the typical age frame during which children begin to develop their sorting skills.
- Initial Sorting Capacity: Toddlers typically start by sorting simple sets into about three groups, each containing three to five items.
- Building Block for Math: This sorting activity is more than just play; it's a key element in building math proficiency, as it introduces the basic concept of pattern recognition.
Practical Examples of Sorting Activities
Here are some ways that parents and caregivers can encourage sorting skills:
- Toy Sorting: Using familiar toys, you can guide children to group them according to color, shape, or type (e.g., all the red blocks together, all the cars together).
- Household Items: Gather safe household items (e.g., socks, spoons, etc.) and help your child sort them by type.
- Nature Items: If safe and available, use natural items (e.g., rocks, leaves, or sticks) for sorting by size or color.
Why is this skill so important?
Sorting is not just about tidying; it helps children develop a range of cognitive skills:
- Visual Discrimination: Being able to distinguish the difference between objects.
- Cognitive Development: Understanding relationships between objects.
- Early Math Skills: Laying a foundation for pattern recognition and other mathematical concepts.
