Identifying black and white shapes (for babies) Back to results

Emotional / Social / Cognitive / 1 or more children / indoor / Ages 2-5 / 10 mins / 20-30 mins / With equipment

High-contrast patterns are some of the few things that baby can actually see in their early days. This indoor activity is designed to help develop babies’ vision and concentration, by giving them something clear and interesting to focus on.

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Fun fact!

Structures inside the retina of the human eye – known as rods and cones – give us the ability to perceive colour. In babies younger than six to nine months, these structures have not matured enough to see the values and intensities of blue, pink, yellow, purple, and green. Instead, the high contrast shades of black and white are the easiest for a baby to see.

Equipment needed

Flash cards of black and white shapes
Flash cards of black, white and red patterns

About the activity

Step 1
Hold each card up in front of baby’s eyes. Hold it still for a few seconds, giving baby enough time to register what they’re seeing.

Step 2
Speak gently to baby as you show each card, using simple phrases such as ‘wow’, ‘look’ and identifying what the shape is. Let babies reach out, touch or hold the cards if they are able.

Step 3
Lay all the cards out on the floor or table surface. Allow young children the chance to view the patterns and shapes all at once. Is there one that captures their interest more than others?

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