Springtime Symmetry

Springtime Symmetry Math Activity

Math and nature combine with fun memory games, matching challenges and curiosity-sparking conversations! Download our Springtime Symmetry Cards and follow the directions for a variety of games. Then take your conversation outdoors to observe symmetry in nature as you look for patterns and balance in the world around you!

 

Ages/Grades:

Toddler (with supervision & support)

Preschool

Early Elementary

 

Learning Domains:

  • • Math
  • • Cognitive Development
  • • Fine Motor Skills
  • • Language & Communication
  • • Science & Nature

 

Materials:

Preparation

  • • Print and cut out the symmetry cards onto sturdy paper or cardstock.
  • • Color with crayons or markers, if desired.
  • • Sort cards into two piles: whole images and their matching halves.
  • • Laminate for durability (optional).

Spring Symmetry Cards

 

Ready, Set, Play!

 

Activity Step 1Game 1: Spring Symmetry Memory

  • • Lay all cards face-down in a grid.
  • • Take turns flipping two cards to find a symmetrical pair (one half + its matching full image).
  • • If a match is found, the player keeps the pair; if not, turn them back over.
  • • Work together to match all of the pairs!

 

Activity Step 2Game 2: Symmetry Sorting Challenge

  • • Mix all the cards together and invite children to sort them into two groups: full images and halves.
  • • Once sorted, work together to find matching pairs by comparing shapes, patterns, and colors.
  • • Challenge children to place halves beside their full image matches to "complete the picture."

 

Activity Step 3Game 3: “Go Match!”

  • • Deal 3–4 cards to each child (adjust based on age and attention span). Place the rest face-down in a “pond” in the middle.
  • • Players take turns asking a friend, “Do you have the match for this card?”—showing one of their cards (either a half or a full image).
  • • If the other player has the symmetrical match (e.g., the other half of a ladybug, or a matching full image), they give it to the asking player, who sets the pair aside as a match.
  • • If not, the responding player says, “Go match!” and the child draws one card from the pond.
  • • The game continues until all matches are made. Celebrate everyone's pairs at the end!

 

Tips

  • • Focus on visual language: “Look at the wings—do they match?” or “Is this side the same as the other?”
  • • Encourage collaborative play rather than competition: “Let’s help each other find all the matches!”

 

Engage Children in Conversation

  • Let’s look closely—how would you tell someone else what this looks like? Can you describe the shapes, colors, or lines?
  • Let’s look at these two cards—how are they alike? How are they different?
  • Can you think of something in nature that looks like this?
  • Can you think of other objects that have two matching sides?
  • Let’s look at your shirt/shoes/leaf. Do you think it has symmetry?
  • If we fold this in half, would both sides look the same?

 

Extensions

  • Go on a springtime symmetry walk. Look for butterflies, flowers, and leaves that show symmetry.
  • Use a mirror to explore symmetry! Place it against one side of a halved card to "complete" the image.
  • Invite children to a “symmetry challenge” with blocks or loose parts. Take turns adding details to make both sides match.
  • Create your own symmetrical drawings using folded paper and paint blots or markers.

 

Loose parts in a mirror showing symmetry

 

Modifications

  • For toddlers, simplify the activity by starting with only 3–4 pairs.
  • Approach games collaboratively – instead of competing, work together to find matches.
  • Focus on matching by color or shape before introducing the term symmetry.

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