Maths Activities for Preschoolers: 20 Play-Based Ideas

Preschool maths does not need worksheets or flashcards. It grows through play: counting snacks, sorting socks, spotting shapes on a walk. Here are 20 ideas that use things you already have.

Counting

1. Count stairs as you climb them.
2. Count out grapes or crackers for snack time.
3. Count toy cars as you line them up.
4. Count claps, jumps and hops.
5. Play I spy with numbers: find three red things.

Sorting and comparing

6. Sort socks by colour or size.
7. Sort toys into big and small.
8. Line up spoons from shortest to longest.
9. Fill two cups and ask which holds more.
10. Match shoes into pairs.

Shapes and patterns

11. Go on a shape hunt around the house.
12. Make a pattern with blocks: red, blue, red, blue.
13. Thread beads in a repeating pattern.
14. Draw shapes in sand, flour or shaving foam.
15. Build a house from squares and triangles.

Everyday maths

16. Set the table: one fork for each person.
17. Count pegs as you hang the washing.
18. Share a snack equally between teddies.
19. Roll a dice and take that many steps.
20. Play shop with real or pretend coins.

Keep it playful

Pick one or two ideas a day rather than trying them all. If your child loses interest, stop and try again tomorrow. The free calendar spreads the ideas over four weeks so you never have to plan.

Quick answers