Sort Things into Living or Non-Living Groups
Is a butterfly living? Is a chair living? In this free sorting activity for kids, children look at ten familiar things and place each one into the right group: living or non-living.
Living things grow, need food and water, and can move or change on their own. Non-living things do not grow or eat, even though some of them can be moved by people. Sorting these pictures helps preschool and primary children notice those differences and talk about the world around them. It is a simple, screen-friendly science warm-up that also works as a printable classroom game.
How to play
- Read the two group names with your child: Living and Non-Living.
- Look at each picture and ask, "Does it grow, eat and need water?"
- Drag or place the item into the group you think is correct.
- Finish all ten items, then check the answers and talk about any surprises.
This activity builds early science understanding of what makes something alive. Your child practises observing, comparing and giving reasons, which are the first steps of scientific thinking. Along the way, children learn and use new words such as grow, breathe, food, water and object. Sorting also strengthens classification skills that support maths and reading later on. To extend the learning, walk around your home or garden together and spot five living things and five non-living things. Ask your child to explain each choice in a full sentence. Gentle questions matter more than right answers at this age.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between living and non-living things?
What age is this sorting activity best for?
Why do children find plants confusing?
Can I use this activity in a classroom?
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Updated 1 Nov 2026