Bring out four bowls of different sizes and weights that can be nested inside each other. Have some pieces of paper and a spoon to put in the bowls to stir up. Keep the paper and spoon to one side at first.
Let the child watch as the adult takes out the bowls one at a time. Watch as the child lifts the bowls and notices the different weights. See what the child does with the bowls. Once the bowls are re-nested, take out the paper and spoon and tear the paper up into little pieces.
The child may say “big” or “little” and use other terms as he plays. Most children will know the meaning of big and little, heavy and tall. Light and short may be heard less frequently.
Encourage early childhood educators and parents to use comparative terms with children to help them understand these concepts. Actual manipulation and comparison with real objects is best for children.
 North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, 2015
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