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If there is anything that is just synonymous with fall and cooler, crisper weather, I think it would have to be apples.
Seeing them on the trees immediately makes me think of cinnamon, cider, and falling leaves.
Now that we’re heading into the cooler months of the year and Autumn is just a few short weeks away, it only makes sense to start adding some new apple-themed activities to our arsenal and right now my toddler is loving this apple tree shape matching file folder game!
We’re kicking off our second month-long file folder game event and I think this one is going to be even bigger and better than the last one!
This game, in particular, has to be one of my favorites right now just because it is so simple and yet, so much fun!
With just a few simple pieces, your toddler or preschooler can work on recognizing basic shapes, matching, fine motor skills, and so much more!
Assembling the Apple Tree Shapes Game
To make your own version of this fall-inspired file folder game, you’ll need:
- A manila file folder
- Clear contact paper
- Apple tree shapes printable (below)
- Velcro dots
- Laminator (optional)
Start by printing and cutting out all of the pieces.
Next, use clear contact paper, or clear packing tape if you’re in a pinch, to secure the cover to the front of the file folder and the two pieces of the apple tree to the inside of the folder.
To ensure that you can still close your folder when you’re done, leave the actual fold in the folder uncovered and line the top and the bottom of the tree up to it.
When your tree is finished, run your apple shapes through your laminator for durability and attach Velcro dots to the backs of the apples as well as to the shapes on the tree.
Using the Apple Tree Shapes Game
When the game is finished and you’re ready to play, just show your child that each of the apples is actually a different shape and ask them to put them where they belong on the apple tree.
Each apple will match to a shape that is currently on the apple tree.
When you’re done playing, simply store the apple shapes in a small plastic baggie along with the game and it’ll be ready to play again when you are!