Math Box Ideas

Here are a few ideas from one of our math boxes...

Pattern blocks help develop shape and color recognition and spatial awareness.  This activity tends to appeal to children who are visual/spatial learners.   Discovery toys Playful Patterns set is my favorite as the designs are sequential from simple matching to more complex 3-D images with multiple correct responses.  Melissa and Doug also makes a set that is a bit less expensive (and wooden pieces are less likely to be ingested, in my experience) as well as a simpler set for younger children.

Simple sequencing cards help children develop the awareness of process based events, such as this simple set depicting the building of a snowman.  You can make your own cards or purchase a pre-made set.  You can also develop cards utilizing social stories to increase social/relational skills.

This dry-erase numbers book was a dollar store find, and includes number tracing and simple addition/subtraction puzzles.  I ask the children to first trace and then write using their "best work"--I strongly suggest only having the child write one additional number as repetition in this case often leads to sloppier work as they go along.  Remind your child to make sure their numbers "bump the line".