The best math options for preschoolers are hands-on activities that can be included in everyday play. Preschool math is all about simple activities that engage early learners, support beginning skills, and entertain. 

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One, two, buckle my shoe. Three, four, shut the door. Can you continue this popular rhyme?

Even if you haven't heard the original chant, you can see how tempting it is to add another verse or two. 

Learning at the preschool level should be just as much fun.

The ideas in this post are intended to entertain, engage, and educate early learners as they play. Activities like Muffin Tin Math use everyday household items, while others use recycled materials or stuff from the toy box.

For everyday play at home or in the classroom, try these activities that can be scheduled for independent play as well as teacher-led activities. 

Preschool math play ideas

Note: Certain educational tools are assets that may be recommended for your child by early education specialists. These may be store-bought or handmade according to the needs of the child and practices of the OT or other professional.

The activities in this roundup are options you can make yourself, for everyday play at home or in the classroom. The materials can be as simple as paper and pompoms, or props like a well-used clock and recycled containers.

How kids learn math as they play

Some of the math concepts we can support during the early years include counting one to ten, sorting colors and shapes, comparing sizes and weights.

This article by Scholastic discusses basic math concepts taught in preschool and kindergarten

Kids learn these concepts by interacting with available supplies.

• They experiment with materials like play dough and blocks, and tools like scissors and plastic containers.
  
  
• They make choices such as whether to use wooden blocks or cardboard boxes to build a tower.
  
  
• They observe which is a better surface for an inclined plane - a piece of cardboard or a rubber mat.
  
  
• They learn from trial and error.

They might decide to build a fort with pillows instead of blankets. Or sort all the vehicles into groups of blue cars and red cars.

Our activities to support beginning math skills are created with hands-on, open-ended play in mind. Kids learn best when they are interested, motivated, and involved.

To help you choose a math play idea, the activities are divided into two categories: Numbers and Sorting

Preschool activities about numbers

First, a word about numbers and numerals.

The terms number and numeral are often used interchangeably. This is generally not an issue with understanding the intent or instructions in kids activities. 

Here's a simple explanation of the difference between numbers and numerals.

• A number is the value or amount we are thinking about, an abstract concept. We say numbers when we are counting.
• A numeral is the symbol or name that represents a number, a visual representation. A numeral can be "2" or "two". The value can also be indicated by holding up two fingers.

Play math games with a free printable game board.

Learn to tell time with digital and analog clocks.

Match numerals and dots with a counting wheel.

Recognize numerals with a homemade counting book.

Set up an indoor bowling game with recycled containers.

A game of toss with numbered containers is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.

Activities that teach sorting and making patterns

Patterning and sorting are important math concepts. They help kids observe relationships and recognize and name colors and shapes.

Match colors and shapes with household objects.

Draw shapes in modeling clay with a STEAM activity.

Make shapes with feathers on printable templates.

Play memory games with beverage stickers (Halloween theme).

Sort jar lids into recycled packaging.

Make patterns with self-adhesive dots and recycled cups.

Match toys and small objects to shape outlines.

Sort colors and make patterns with tape and pompoms.

Trace leaves in a nature activity.

Sort fall leaves by size and color.

Play math games with small wood blocks.

Learn fractions with watermelon math.

Math activities in everyday play

Now that you have this fun-filled roundup in your toolkit, choose an activity or two for everyday play to fill your weekly planner. You can easily provide amazing math play with low-prep setups using available materials.

The goal for most preschool activities is to be child-led, with guidance from the teacher where needed. Prompts require few instructions and are flexible enough to meet a variety of needs and skill levels.

Remember the rhyme at the first of the post? 

Let's complete the rhyme!

Five, six, pick up sticks.

Seven, eight, lay them straight.

Nine, ten, a farmyard hen.

Now let's say this rhyme again.

You can always add songs and chants like this to build awareness and interaction of numbers.

Happy counting! 

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