How to Sort Buttons

Sort buttons before using them for crafts or sewing projects.

Sorting buttons is an activity that can engage both adults and children. Buttons are sorted to be used for crafts, sewing and other activities. Sorting buttons is often used to teach children how to count and match like-colors. Children also learn to follow directions and stay on task while sorting buttons with an adult or a group. Working with buttons allows each individual to practice fine-motor and hand-eye coordination skills.

Things You'll Need

• Large amounts of buttons
• Several containers for the buttons

Instructions

1. Gather all the buttons into one area and place them on a large flat surface. Buttons should be of various shapes, sizes and colors.

2. Sort the buttons by color, shape and size.

3. If you are working with young children, instruct them to sort by color and ask them to count how many buttons there are of each color. This teaches the children sorting and counting skills.

4. Sort the buttons that sparkle and are "pretty." Ask the children which button they think is the "prettiest" and which one has the most sparkle. This gives the children a chance to interact with each other as they discuss the different buttons.

5. Discuss the buttons by asking them to make up stories about the buttons. This helps children to engage in imaginative play and creative story-telling.

6. Clean up the buttons when you are done sorting them. Have the children help place the buttons where they belong. This helps children learn to clean up after themselves, and also with hand-eye coordination.

References

• Education: Button Math: Have Fun with Buttons!
• Disney Family Fun: Mathamatics: Craft Learning Fun for Kids