Make learning shapes fun with the Shape Train Express.  This fun craft is made from felt, glue, scissors, and Velcro.  Young children will love Velcroing the train together in a variety of different ways.  This craft focuses on helping children to identify squares, circles, triangles, diamonds, and rectangles.  In no time, children will be able to distinguish these shapes from one another and identify them in their surroundings!

What you'll need:

  • 1 large piece of black felt
  • Small pieces of red, yellow, green, blue, pink, and purple felt
  • Velcro
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Markers or crayons
  • 1 piece of white cardstock
  • Shape Train Express template
How to make your Shape Train Craft
  1. Print out the Shape Train Express template.  Cut out the pieces.  (see photos)
  2. Trace the circular wheel onto the black felt thirteen times and cut out.  (see photos)
  3. Place the rectangular piece on the red felt.  Place the small triangular piece in the front.  Stack the square piece on top of the rectangular piece and trace.  This will be the engine.  Cut out the shape and glue together.  Glue two black wheels to the back of the engine and one wheel to the front.  Allow the glue to dry.  (see photos)
  4. Trace one of each of the shapes onto the remaining colors of felt and cut out.   Glue two black felt wheels to the bottom of each of these shapes.  (see photos).
  5. Cut five two to three inch strips of black felt. Glue one Velcro piece to the front and back of the strips.  (see photos)
  6. Line the shapes in the train up and attach a Velcro piece to both sides of each of the cars.  Attach a Velcro piece to the back of the engine.  Allow the glue to dry.  (see photos)
  7. Your shape train is now complete!  Decorate it with markers or anything else you desire.  See how fast you can learn the shapes.  For an extra challenge, practice identifying the colors of each car as well!
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