Design a Math Game
Design a math game that assists children in learning the numbers 1-10 and elicits counting skills practice.
Game Name: Pop-Up Pals!
Objectives: By doing this activity, the child will….
- Count objects 1-10
- Identify numbers 1-10
- Relate the number of objects to the written numeral
Materials to play the game:
- Empty tissue box
- Construction paper (various colors)
- Markers or crayons
- Stickers (optional)
- Play dough or small toys (10 or less)
Directions for playing the game:
- Decorate the box: Cut a rectangular opening in the top of the tissue box, large enough for a small child’s hand to reach inside. Decorate the box with construction paper and markers to create a fun scene, like a garden or a farmyard.
- Create Pop-Up Pals: Cut out different shapes from construction paper (flowers, animals, etc.) and decorate them with markers or crayons. Write a number between 1 and 10 on the back of each pop-up pal.
- Hide the Pals: Place a small amount of play dough or a sticker on the bottom of each Pop-Up Pal. Stick the Pals onto the box’s inside, ensuring the numbers are hidden.
- Let’s Play!: The child reaches into the box and looks around for a Pop-Up Pal. Once they find one, they carefully pull it out.
- Counting and Matching: The child looks at the number on the Pop-Up Pal and says the number out loud. They can then count out loud the corresponding number of fingers or use small toys or other available counters.
After viewing the video found under RESOURCES in the module titled “Supporting Mathematical Development in Young Children: Comparison,” answer the following questions:
- Were your memories of math sweet or difficult, and why?
Math memories can vary depending on individual experiences. Positive experiences involve using math for creative projects, feeling successful at solving problems or having a supportive and encouraging teacher. Negative experiences could include rote memorization, math anxiety, or feeling lost and confused in class.
- How can you help children to make comparisons?
- Ask Questions: Encourage comparisons by asking questions like “Which pile has more?” or “Who has the shorter tower?”
- Use Everyday Activities: Point out comparisons during daily routines. For example, “We have 4 slices of bread, but only 2 people. Do we have enough?”
3 How do you support math during routines?
- Counting: Count objects while setting the table or getting dressed.
- Sorting: Sort laundry by color or toys by size.
- Give examples of integrating math learning in play. What theorist(s) can you connect to this?
- Blocks: Compare the height of block towers. (Relates to Jean Piaget’s theory of constructivism, where children learn through play and exploration)
- Games: Play board games that involve counting spaces or collecting objects.
- Dolls/Pretend Play: Compare toy portions during pretend tea parties.
- Explain how to teach math concepts to young children explicitly.
- Use manipulatives: Use physical objects like blocks or counters to represent numbers and quantities.
- Connect to the world: Relate math concepts to everyday experiences. For example, compare the number of apples in a fruit bowl.
- Songs and Rhymes: Use rhymes and songs that incorporate counting or comparisons.