From road signs to puzzle pieces, shapes are ubiquitous. This is why they are one of the first things that children learn—and for good reason. Learning shapes is very beneficial for children because it helps them make sense of what they see.
Understanding shapes isn’t just about naming circles and squares. It builds the foundation for reading, writing, and basic math. It also sharpens observation, memory, and problem-solving skills.
At Barnshenn, we believe learning should feel like play. That’s why we create shape-sorting toys that turn everyday discoveries into joyful learning moments.
But before we dive into the best shape-sorting toys, let’s understand why shape learning plays such a big role in your child’s development.
Why Shape Learning Matters
Understanding shapes plays a big role in a child’s early learning journey. Here's how it helps:
-
Boosts Cognitive Development
Learning shapes helps children develop strong thinking and problem-solving skills. It improves their memory and attention span while sharpening their ability to observe and understand what they see around them.
-
Supports Visual Organisation
When children learn to compare, match, and organise shapes, they’re building important visual processing skills. These skills are closely linked to reading, writing, and recognising patterns—the core foundations for school readiness.
-
Introduces Early Math Concepts
Recognising shapes is one of the first steps towards understanding numbers, sizes, and patterns. These early math concepts become easier to grasp when kids can spot and name basic shapes confidently.
-
Encourages Playful Learning
At Barnshenn, we make sure learning never feels like a chore. Our toys turn shape recognition into a fun and playful experience, making it easier for toddlers to stay curious and engaged.
Now that we understand how important shape learning is, let’s explore some toys that make it engaging and hands-on—starting with one of the most loved: shape and sorter toys.
Must-Have Shape Toys for Toddlers
Shape and Sorter Toys
Shape sorter toys are a classic for a reason. They help children match shapes and place them in the right holes. The activity boosts hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.
To make this classic activity even more engaging and safe, Barnshenn is here to help. Our shape and sorter toys are crafted from non-toxic wood. Each piece is smooth, colourful, and easy to hold with your little fingers.
Whether used for independent play or shared moments between parent and child, these toys make learning both fun and engaging.
Wooden Stacking Toys
Stacking may look like play, but it’s secretly building key skills step by step. Wooden stacking toys let kids explore shape, size, and balance. This type of play boosts spatial awareness and hand control. It also helps children stay focused for longer periods.
Our wooden stacking toys come in bright colours and neat shapes. Kids love to play with it. Often, they build towers, knock them down, and rebuild them again.
Puzzle Toys with Shapes
When it comes to teaching children, puzzles become a great tool. Shaped puzzles, in particular, teach children how to identify and match different forms. It builds important visual and cognitive skills.
With colourful wooden pieces and clearly defined cutouts, this puzzle encourages kids to focus, think, and solve problems. They naturally improve their hand-eye coordination, memory, and attention span as they learn where each shape belongs.
Activity Cubes with Shapes
Activity cubes are brimming with educational features. Most include shape sorting, spinning gears, and bead mazes. All these activities improve cognitive development.
Barnshenn’s wooden activity cubes also have shape panels to teach shape recognition. It also has other panels offering different forms of learning. So, these cubes are perfect for toddlers who get bored quickly.
Soft Shape Learning Toys
Soft toys can teach shapes too! Barnshenn’s soft shape learning toys are made with plush fabric. They are light, cuddly, and easy for little hands to hold.
Each toy is stitched with a different shape, making it a sensory and visual treat. These are perfect for babies and toddlers who are just starting out. They’re also ideal for bedtime and travel play.
And if you're not ready to invest in toys just yet, that's perfectly fine. There are plenty of simple ways to help your child learn shapes using everyday items at home.
Tips for Learning Shapes at Home
Make shapes part of everyday play. Using toys often helps children remember better through repetition.
Talk about shapes while playing. Ask fun questions like, “What shape is this?” or “Can you find the triangle?” This technique keeps your child engaged and curious.
You can also draw shapes together or look for them around the house—on plates, clothes, books, or signs. The more your child sees and discusses shapes, the faster they learn.
And when you're looking to take that learning a step further, Barnshenn is here to help. Our toys for learning shapes are designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. Browse our full range of shape and sorter toys, wooden stacking toys, and other educational toys. Let your child learn the fun way—one shape at a time.
FAQs -
1. At what age should my child start learning shapes?
Ans: Most children start recognising shapes between 1 and 2 years old. Simple toys are best for beginners.
2. Are wooden stacking toys safe for toddlers?
Ans: Yes. Barnshenn’s wooden stacking toys are made from child-safe wood with smooth edges and non-toxic paint.
3. How do shape and sorter toys help in learning?
Ans: They improve hand-eye coordination, memory, and logical thinking through problem-solving play.
4. Can I mix different types of shape-learning toys?
Ans: Absolutely. Combining stackers, sorters, and puzzles creates a richer, more engaging learning experience.
