Which option best supports toddlers’ problem-solving and spatial reasoning during sensorimotor exploration?

• A. guessing and checking how many cups of sand will fill a bucket
• B. trying to pick up objects with a magnet
• C. fitting blocks into the holes of a shape-sorter box
• D. weighing objects with a balance scale

Answer: (C)

Toddlers develop problem-solving and spatial reasoning by actively exploring how objects fit and move in space. Fitting blocks into the holes of a shape-sorter box requires them to notice the shape of each piece and the corresponding opening, test different orientations, and adjust until the piece fits. This hands-on, trial-and-error activity builds their ability to mentally represent shapes and spaces, understand how objects relate to one another, and plan actions to achieve a goal. It also promotes persistence as they experiment with which pieces go where, strengthening early logic about spatial relationships.

Other activities tap into related skills but not the same level of spatial problem-solving. Using a magnet focuses more on grip and cause-and-effect with magnetic force; guessing how many cups of sand will fill a bucket emphasizes estimation and volume rather than matching shapes to spaces; weighing objects with a balance scale centers on comparison of weight rather than fitting and spatial orientation.