Shape sorter: What it is and what your child can learn with it

by Joost Nusselder Updated on: September 23, 2023

What is a shape sorter?

A shape sorter is a playful shape sorting toy where shapes have to put the correct holes. A shape sorter is one educational toys for young children learning to recognize shapes and colors.

In this article I will tell you everything about what a shape sorter is, how it works and what you should pay attention to when purchasing.

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What does a shape sorter entail?

A shape sorter (the best reviewed here) is a toy for young children where they have to put different shapes in the right holes. The purpose of the shape sorter is to help children learn to recognize shapes, colors, and develop their senses fine motor skills. It's a nice and educational product that helps children learn and grow quickly.

The advantages of a shape sorter

A shape sorter is a very inexpensive product that is easily available in most toy stores. It is one of the most suitable toys for young children because it helps them develop their... fine motor skills and teaches them to recognize shapes and colors. It's also a great way to entertain kids and keep them busy while parents can do something else.

When is a shape sorter suitable?

A shape sorter is suitable for children from about 1 year old. At this age, children begin to understand what the idea is and can try to put the shapes in the correct holes. It's important to look at the type of shape sorter you buy, as some shape sorters are only suitable for older children. It is therefore important to take the age of your child into account when buying a shape sorter.

What types of shape sorter are there?

There are several types of shape sorters available. One has colored shapes that have to be put in the right holes, while the other has a specific theme, such as animals or vehicles. It is important to look at which shape sorter suits your child best and which is most suitable for your child's development.

Why is a shape sorter a good choice?

A shape sorter is a good choice because it is a proven tool to help children with their development. Research has shown that children who play with a shape sorter learn faster and develop better than children who do not. It is therefore a good idea to purchase a shape sorter if you want to help your child with his or her development.

What should you pay attention to when buying a shape sorter?

When buying a shape sorter, it is important to take a number of things into account. For example, you should look at the size of the shape sorter, so that you can be sure that your child can sit comfortably. You also have to look at the price and the quality of the product. It is also important to look at the types of shapes that come with it and whether they are suitable for the age of your child.

What is the best way to use a shape sorter?

The best way to use a shape sorter is to let your child play with the shapes and try to put the shapes in the correct holes. It is important to guide your child and help where necessary. This way your child can learn and develop in a fun and educational way.

What does your child learn from playing with toys such as a shape sorter?

A shape sorter is a toy intended to help your child practice motor skills. It puts your child's hands to work and ensures that they learn how to place different shapes in the correct holes. Playing with such toys is a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and the fine motor skills to develop.

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A shape sorter is a great way to keep your child active and engaged. It ensures that your child is constantly learning and exploring new things. It is a suitable activity for children from 6 months to about 2 years old. Playing with a shape sorter ensures that your child is active and keeps moving.

Main points to pay attention to

As a parent, it is important to pay attention to your child's safety when playing with a shape sorter. Make sure the shape sorter is appropriate for your child's age and that it does not contain any small parts that your child could swallow. Place the shape sorter in a safe place and never let your child play unattended.

From what age is a shape sorter suitable for your child?

A shape sorter is fun and educational toys for children. But from what age can you offer a shape sorter to your child? In general, a shape sorter is suitable for children from 12 months. This is the stage where children begin recognizing shapes and colors.

Stimulate development

A shape sorter can help stimulate your child's development. By recognizing the different shapes and putting them in the right holes, your child learns about shapes, colors and spatial orientation. It can also help you learn to count and write later in life.

Suitable for small hands

A shape sorter is specially designed for small children's hands. The pieces are big enough to grip and the holes are big enough to push the molds in. This way your child can play and learn independently.

Play together

A shape sorter is not only fun to play with alone, but also together with you as a parent or with other children. This way you can help your child recognize the shapes and stimulate his or her creativity. Also, playing together can strengthen the relationship between you.

What should you pay attention to when buying a shape sorter?

First of all, it is important to look at the age and development of your child. From what age can you offer a shape sorter? In general, shape sorters are suitable for children from 1 year old. It is important that the child has already developed some motor skills to be able to place the molds in the correct openings. Also look at the sizes of the molds and the openings, so that it does not become too difficult or too easy for your child.

Types of molds

There are different types of molds available. For example, there are shape sorters with animals, colors or different shapes. There are also shape sorters with extra functions, such as toys that are attached to the product. Consider in advance which type of shape sorter suits your child best and what you find important.

material and price

Shape sorters are available in different materials and price ranges. There are cheap shape sorters made of plastic, but also more expensive variants made of wood. Think about what is important to you and what your budget is. Keep in mind that cheap can sometimes be expensive and that a higher price often means better quality.

Parts and size

Also look at the size of the shape sorter and whether it is easy to store in the house. It is also useful to know whether the parts of the shape sorter are easy to clean. Some shape sorters have separate parts that can get lost, while other shape sorters have everything in one unit. Think about what is most convenient for you.

Quality and safety

When buying a shape sorter, also pay attention to the quality and safety of the product. Check that the product meets European safety standards and that there are no sharp edges or small parts that could be dangerous for your child.

Buy online or in store?

You can buy shape sorters both online and in the store. The advantage of buying online is that you can quickly view and compare a large number of products. However, in the store you can see and feel the product better, so that you get a better idea of ​​the size and quality. Fortunately, shape sorters are usually available in every toy store.

Latest tips

• Choose a shape sorter that suits your child's development and interests.
• Consider in advance what you find important and what your budget is.
• Pay attention to the quality and safety of the product.
• Check whether the product is easy to clean and whether it is easy to store at home.
• If in doubt, read reviews from other people to get a better idea of ​​the product.
• Don't forget that a shape sorter is not only fun for your child, but also contributes to the development of motor skills and teaches your child to recognize shapes and colors.

How do you clean a shape sorter?

Cleaning a mold sorter is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the product lasts longer and continues to function properly. In addition, it is hygienic for your child to play with a clean shape sorter. Cleaning the shape sorter can also help prevent any reactions in your child if he or she is allergic to certain substances.

How do you clean a shape sorter?

Cleaning a mold sorter is very simple and quick to do. Follow the following steps:

1. Remove the molds from the mold stew and set them aside.
2. Make a solution of warm water and a mild detergent.
3. Clean the inside of the shape sorter with the soapy water and a soft brush or toothbrush.
4. Rinse the shape sorter with clean water and dry it with a clean cloth.
5. Clean the molds with the soapy water and a soft brush or toothbrush.
6. Rinse the molds with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
7. Place the shapes back in the shape sorter.

Are there any other tips for cleaning a mold sorter?

In addition, there are a number of tips that make cleaning a mold sorter easier:

• Do not use aggressive cleaning agents or abrasive sponges, as these can damage the shape sorter.
• Do not clean the shape sorter under water, as this may damage the parts.
• If the shape sorter has multiple colours, make sure that the colors do not mix during cleaning.
• If the shape sorter has moving parts, such as rotating motor skills or coordination toys, make sure you don't damage them during cleaning.

Conclusion

A shape sorter is one educational toy where children have to put shapes in the right holes. It helps children develop their motor skills and they learn to recognize shapes.

Buy your child a shape sorter and let them play with it. It's a fun way to keep them busy while you do other things.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.