We have our first Maths related activity in 31 Days of Learning today from Best Toys for Toddlers. This is a wonderful idea for you all; using a classic game to help with counting skills. You probably have a set of Uno cards at home? Instead of making or buying a separate set of counting flash cards to help toddlers and preschoolers with counting and learning numbers, why not use Uno cards you already own?! It’s an easy way to create counting cards and you can even create 8 sets of counting cards from a single Uno card deck! Perfect for teachers in preschool and kindergarten!
What you will need for this counting activity?
- Deck of Uno cards
- Counters – we used star shaped beads
- Permanent marker (black and yellow – optional)
How to prepare for this early maths activity?
Start with setting aside 10 cards in the same color from Uno deck with numbers 0 – 10. You can also use blank cards in matching color instead of 0 cards. We used blank cards to add number 10 since there is no number 10 in the original deck. You can use 0 cards for the same purpose. Use permanent markers to turn blank or 0 cards to 10 cards.
Prepare counters in advance. You will need 55 items for counters. We used star shape beads. You can use a number of different items, here are few suggestions:
- Rocks
- Bean
- Pom poms
- Coins
- Mini erasers
You can download a list of 50 math manipulatives to use as counters for additional ideas.
Let’s count from 1 – 10!
Set cards on the table (or floor) in order and invite your child to add as many star beads as the number on the card calls for. If you have a toddler or a preschooler, you might need to assist them in the beginning and teach them which number each card represents. Older kids can do this activity as an independent activity. Goal is to learn their numbers by adding an exact number of counters as represented on the card.
Counting with Uno cards is fun for kids, especially if you switch counters with each use, making this activity new every time. For more ideas on how to use Uno cards you can see an article with 5 learning ideas with Uno cards adapted for toddlers and preschoolers where we share ideas for learning colours, numbers and simplified age appropriate games.
If you like this Maths game – why not check out some of the other games that we have on the site too?
Maths and other games on the site
Here are some more ideas for Maths and game play for the kids!
Free Ladybird printable math worksheets
Perfect number fun with ladybirds, or lady bugs, depending on where you come from!
Free St Patricks Day Activities: Math Workbook
A bit of mathematical fun for St Patricks Day!
Number tracing for kids
Using numbers to help with fine motor skills to prepare for writing.
Animal habitats sorting game for kids: Free printable
Our most popular game - habitat sorting for the kids. Who doesn't love a little bit of STEM-based fun.
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Thanks for coming to see us again.
Helen