This preschool math counting wheel craft supports early math skills. Kids can learn number recognition and beginning counting with this simple craft and math play.
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Add hands-on fun to your everyday math experiences with this preschool math counting wheel craft. The object of the counting wheel is to match number values to corresponding quantities of dots.
The counting wheel craft is similar to the one used in our dial-a-jack-o-lantern craft. The wheel (or dial) has moving parts that grab kids attention.
It’s easy to add homemade resources like this counting wheel to your toolkit. They cost next to nothing, and they can be made at your convenience.
You can make a counting wheel for the classroom, and kids can make their own counting wheels to use at home.
Dial up some math play for your preschoolers! This counting wheel is fun to make for a hands-on math activity.
Counting wheel craft
Materials list
- Small self-adhesive numerals vinyl or felt
- Large decorative numerals
- Self-adhesive dots
Notice the different version of the number 4 on the smaller wheel.
Instructions for a counting wheel
1. Cut out a cardboard frame 8.5 inches long x 9 inches wide (22 x 23 cm).
2. Cut two circles (wheels) from cardboard – one 6 inch (15 cm) diameter and one 4 inch ( 10 cm) diameter.
3. Divide each circle into four equal sections by intersecting two lines as shown in the diagram.
4. Put dot stickers in each section of the large wheel.
5. Put a numeral in each section of the small wheel.
6. Cut two notches in the cardstock frame, a larger one at the top, a smaller one at the side.
- The opening of the larger cut-out V measures 4 inches (10 cm) across the top. The V-shape will match the size of one of the sections created in the larger circle.
- The opening on the right-hand side measures 3 inches (7.5 cm) across. This notch will match the size of one section in the smaller circle.
7. Attach the dials to the frame with paper fasteners.
- Line up a V-shaped section of the large wheel with the large opening in the base. The dots and numerals should appear in the center of the V-shaped opening.
- Repeat with the smaller wheel.
The divided sections should be revealed one at a time as a dial is rotated.
Start rolling out the fun with this easy to make math tool!
Kid-made counting wheel
To help kids make a counting wheel, prepare the frame and the two circles ahead of time. You might also want to make the holes for the paper fasteners.
Help kids assemble the counter if necessary.
Kids can color the frame or decorate the frame with stickers.
Math play with a cardboard dial
A movable dial is a way for kids to explore numbers in a child-led activity.
Activities that are hands-on and interactivity make learning new skills fun for preschoolers.
Related: Best Math Games for Preschoolers
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