Early Atlas

Skill

Compares Measurable Attributes

Child compares and orders objects by length, height, or weight using units.

Ages 36–60 months

measurement comparing length weight non-standard-units preschool

Why it matters

Measurement begins with noticing that objects differ in attributes like length, height, and weight, and that those attributes can be compared and ordered. Using repeated non-standard units, such as snap cubes, lays the groundwork for standard measurement and comparative reasoning.

Builds toward this milestone

  • measures objects by their various attributes using standard and non-standard measurement. Uses differences in attributes to make comparisons. — Head Start ELOF

Explore milestones →

What mastery looks like

  • Compares two objects and says which is taller, longer, or heavier.
  • Orders up to five objects from shortest to tallest or lightest to heaviest.
  • Measures an object by lining up same-size units, such as cubes, end to end.

How to observe it

  • When comparing two towers, does the child line up the bases before deciding which is taller?
  • Does the child use comparative words like shorter, heavier, or biggest?

Accessibility

  • Offer objects with strong weight or length contrasts for children comparing by touch.
  • Use units that snap or stick together for children with motor differences.

Activities

Evidence

Early Atlas