Symmetry is a BIG concept for young children. To build towards understanding of this big concept, we want to start with simple hands-on activities. This Symmetry Hearts Printing is a perfect invitation for young children to explore the beauty of symmetry.
We have done symmetry printing art for Halloween and Christmas. I love watching my 3yo develop her own understanding of symmetry through this process art. She was intrigued to observe how the paint on one side of the heart was printed on the other side when she folded the paper.
My 5yo was at another level of the symmetry game. He was coming up with ways to create faces on the hearts through symmetry printing.
We quickly ran out of hearts because the children had so much fun with this one. That’s a really good problem.
Related: Advanced Symmetry Game for the Older Kids using Duplo!
When is a good time to introduce symmetry to kids?
It’s never too young to introduce symmetry! The easiest way to explore symmetry with your young toddlers is by pointing out symmetrical patterns in every day life. We see symmetry everywhere in nature, art, buildings and so on and they are all wonderful opportunities to introduce symmetry to children, especially the toddlers. When we see a butterfly in the garden, I share with my children about how the patterns on the left wing is the same as the right wing. We put objects in front of the mirror to observe their reflections.
To set up this activity
I cut out several red and pink hearts. Fold each heart in half to create the middle fold line. Now take out the paint (we use white, gold and silver). Invite your children to create patterns on one half of the heart, fold the hearts and unfold to see their beautiful symmetry creations!
Prompting question:
Only one half of the heart has paint on it, I wonder what will happen when we fold the paper? Then sit back and watch your children work their creative magic!
Give these hearts out as Valentine’s Day cards, or punch a hole in them and string them up to make a garland!
Please share your beautiful hearts with me!
Pin this idea on your Favorite Art Activity board.
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