1: Sticky Note Addition

For this whole group, hands-on addition activity, the teacher begins by writing numbers on the whiteboard. These numbers will serve as the sums for the activity, so you can differentiate them by writing numbers to 5, 10, or beyond.

Next, the teacher passes out sticky notes with addition sentences written on them. Taking turns, students read their addition sentence aloud, find the sum, and stick their addition sentence over it to complete the equation.

2: Addition to 10 Boom Cards

This addition activity is a 2-for-1 when it comes to learning as it's both hands-on AND digital! These Addition to 10 Boom Cards allow students to practice various addition equations up to 10. Students will count the ladybugs in each jar and use the digital number tiles to build the equation.

They get 30 different digital task cards to practice with. That's not all, though. They are self-checking, too. Students get instant feedback and you save time grading. What a win!

3: Addition Towers

This hands-on addition activity requires nothing more than plastic math cubes and sticky notes or notecards. Simply prep the sticky notes or notecards with addition equations. You can even use the same sticky note equations from the first activity above. Students will draw an equation and model it using 2 colors of plastic math cubes.

Another way to do this activity in a small group is by laying out all of the sticky notes and having students choose an equation, model it, and place their cube tower on the equation, working together until all of the equations are covered.

4: Flip and Solve

Addition practice mats offer a variety of ways to solve addition problems. Students can use various manipulatives and number lines to model equations. You could also make your own addition mats out of colored card stock or grab some done-for-you Flip and Solve mats.

Flip and Solve is jam-packed with hands-on learning opportunities. There are a variety of mats included, giving students different ways to model and solve equations. Students will flip a card, solve the equation using either manipulatives or a number line, and complete the addition sentence using a magnetic number tile. Recording sheets are also included for students to practice.

5: Ten-Frame Addition

The next of the hands-on addition activities is a great whole group game. You'll need painters tape and 2 colors of paper plates (like the ones from the party section). Use the tape to make a giant ten-frame on the carpet. Start by making the outside perimeter, then do a long strip down the middle, and then smaller strips to make the 10 sections. Pro tip- evenly space five plates to measure how long your ten frame needs to be, then move one down to measure how tall it should be, then make the rest of the tape strips.

Next, write addition sentences on notecards and turn them over face down. Call a student up to pick a card. They will read their addition sentence aloud and use the colored paper plates to model and solve the addition sentence on the ten-frame. While the student is solving, the other students can write and solve the problem on dry-erase boards and compare their answers.

6: Grab and Add

This hands-on addition activity is a great math center idea for students. Simply fill two containers with different types of objects. You can use anything! Plastic math cubes, counting bears, mini-erasers, or even marshmallows and chocolate candies. Students will reach in and grab a small handful of each object. They'll count the objects and write an addition sentence and sum on this FREE recording sheet or a dry-erase board.

7: Crack the Code

What kid doesn't love a good mystery? Your students are going to have a blast with this crack the code addition game! They'll use the secret code at the top of the page to build addition and subtraction sentences. There are 15 no-prep pages each for addition, subtraction, and mixed practice. These can be used for small groups, centers, morning tubs, etc. Hello math detectives!

8: Addition War

To play this addition game, all you need are regular playing cards. Remove the face cards from the deck. You can use the Aces as ones or remove those as well. Students will play with a partner. They both flip one card, laying them side by side. The first player to add the numbers correctly wins the round and gets to keep both cards. The first player to collect all of the cards wins the game.

9: Addition Story Problems

Story problems require a lot of practice and problem-solving. Students must learn how to solve story problems in a variety of ways. These 40 pages of addition and subtraction story problems will help them do just that! Students will solve 1 problem per page in a variety of ways, helping them practice multiple problem-solving strategies with one fun, no-prep activity.

10: Dice Addition

For this hands-on addition activity, students will roll 2 dice. The jumbo foam dice are fun for this and aren't so loud! The students will write the addition equation and solve it on a dry-erase board. This is a fun small group or math center game.

11: Domino Addition

Need an engaging addition game for your morning tubs or independent practice centers? Domino Addition is perfect for that. Simply write numbers 1-10 on notecards or use any number card you have and line up the cards. Students will draw a domino from the pile, add the dots on each side, and find the number card that matches the sum, placing the domino on top of it.

12: Addition and Subtraction to 10 Bundle

If you are craving even more hands-on addition activities but aren't wanting a ton of prep, look no further than the addition and subtraction to 10 bundle! This bundle includes 9 different addition and subtraction resources, all designed to help your students practice these math concepts in a hands-on way. From games and activity mats to mystery worksheets, your students will enjoy practicing all year long!

Addition practice doesn't have to be a drag. Spice up your curriculum with these hands-on addition activities and watch those light bulb moments come alive!

Why Learning Through Games Is Effective

Using learning games for kindergarteners is an effective strategy for making skill practice and review fun and hands-on for students.

By playing various games, students are allowed to be active, stress less, and enjoy the learning experience.

It's also a great way to encourage cooperative learning and build classroom community.

As students play together and work on key math and literacy skills, they learn important life skills such as sportsmanship, taking turns, interacting, playing fair, and problem-solving.

The more students are enjoying themselves and working cooperatively with their classmates, the more they'll retain and stay on task. It's a win-win situation!

Tips For Setting Learning Games Up For Success

When you are incorporating math and literacy games into your classroom, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. These tips will help you set the learning games and your students up for success.

Tip #1: Prep your supplies.

One of the biggest time-sucks in the kindergarten classroom is getting students ready to play a game and realizing you don't have the supplies ready or there are supplies missing.

Before playing the game, preferably before the day begins, prep your supplies. Gather everything students will need and place them in a centralized location.

Add all the supplies and game pieces they'll need to a large baggie, a colorful tote tray, or an organization basket.

It's also a good idea to add extras, such as an extra spinner and extra counters. That way if one gets lost, students can keep playing without interrupting you or their classmates.

If you are using your learning games during small groups or partner practice, you can label the baggie, tray, or basket with those students' names so they know exactly what they need.

Tip #2: Set your space up for success.

Have you ever had one of those moments where students are playing a game that involves rolling a dot cube and all you can hear are cubes hitting the floor or desks? It can be loud and distracting!

When implementing learning games in your classroom, consider the game, your students, and your space. It might be better to have students play games with dot cubes on the carpet, where it will be less distracting.

On the other hand, games with spinners or several pieces, such as counters, can easily get lost on the floor. Set those games up at your small group table or by putting two desks together.

It's also a good idea to spread groups of students and games out around the room. That allows each group to have their own space and hear each other without being distracted by other games happening around the room.

Tip #3: Discuss expectations before playing.

Just like with any new activity or learning strategy, it's important to discuss expectations with your students before playing.

Talk to them about staying in their area, taking care of their supplies, using kind words, taking turns, setting the game up for the next group, transitioning between games, etc.

You can also discuss what to do if they are stuck, need help, or finish the game early.

By taking the time to discuss these expectations ahead of time, students will be more confident playing the games and making positive choices.

Tip #4: Model each game.

Modeling each game with your students is a great way to explain the directions, show them exactly what they'll be doing, and ask guiding questions to check for understanding.

This is a great time to answer any questions they may have before beginning.

You can even do a quick practice round with your students to ensure they know how to play the game, take turns, and use the materials.

This is an opportunity to talk through potential problems or challenges they'll need to solve during the game. This can help kickstart their brains into problem-solving mode.

Using consistent math and literacy games with directions that remain the same while the theme changes is a great way to save yourself time and empower your students.

Tip #5: Use small groups.

When it comes to implementing learning games for kindergarteners, small groups tend to work better than large groups.

Smaller groups cut down on the chaos while still giving students the opportunity to work with other students.

Another benefit of small groups is less wait time in between turns, which is a must for little learners.

When it's time to introduce a new activity, doing so in small groups is a good way to give every student a chance to play while maximizing your time.

Groups of 3-4 students is ideal, but you can definitely pair students up to play partner games.

How To Incorporate Learning Games Into Your Schedule

Now that you have 5 tips for setting learning games up for success in the classroom, let's talk about how to incorporate these learning games into your busy schedule!

There are so many skills to teach in kindergarten. It can feel like you're constantly running around trying to squeeze everything in.

Oftentimes, teachers feel like they need to cut out fun learning activities like games in order to get everything done.

However, learning games may be one of the most effective and important activities to keep on your schedule at all times. After all, students will be highly engaged in math and literacy games, which leads to higher retention.

There are several ways to incorporate learning games into your kindergarten class schedule, including:

• Small group lessons
• Morning tubs
• Math and literacy centers
• Partner games
• Early finisher activities
• Brain breaks
• Free choice games
• Indoor recess games
• Quick time filler games
• Seasonal games

Using Math and Literacy Games All Year Long

Learning games are one of those staples to keep on your math and literacy lesson plans all year long. They're great for practicing skills, reviewing skills, and simply making learning fun.

Plus, by switching out the themes, your students will always have fresh games to play, even if they are practicing the same skill.

You can check out my Kindergarten Math and Literacy Games Bundle where I've done all of the planning, direction-writing, and work for you!

There are 108 easy-prep games covering 9 different skills in year-round themes. These games never go out of style whether it's August, December, or May!

All you need are basic classroom supplies, such as mini erasers, plastic math cubes, and plastic spinners (or the homemade, paperclip and pencil version).

Free Math and Literacy Games for Kindergarten

Are you ready to try implementing learning games for kindergarteners in your classroom?

You can download a FREE sample pack of the Kindergarten Math and Literacy Games by filling out the form below. It'll get delivered straight to your inbox with 6 fun games for your students to enjoy!

I hope you enjoyed these tips and ideas for implementing learning games in your classroom!

Ways to Make 5 and 10 Activities

Teaching students different ways to make 5 and 10 helps them learn how to compose and decompose numbers. This is a critical skill that students must learn before moving on to addition and subtraction.

This skill requires a lot of practice and exposure, which is why it's important to have a vast selection of ways to make 5 and 10 activities for your students to work with. Read on for 9 low-prep, effective activities for practicing making 5 and 10.

#1. Number Beads

For this activity, all you need are pipe cleaners and beads, such as those you find at the craft store. String 5 or 10 beads, depending on what number you're practicing, of the same color onto the pipe cleaner. Form the pipe cleaner into a circle.

Take a small piece of masking tape and write the number you're practicing on the tape. Use the tape to secure the pipe cleaner by taping the seam. Students can then move the beads on each side of the tape to show different ways to make 5 and 10.

#2. Roll a Number Pair

This Roll a Number Pair activity is a great ways to make 5 and 10 activity for kindergarten. Determine what number you're working on, either 5 or 10. Write different number pairs on a dry erase cube.

Students will take turns rolling the cube, reading the number pair, and telling if it makes 5 or 10. If you wanted to add an extra challenge, you could have students model the number pair using manipulatives and a ten-frame.

#3. Mini Eraser Ten-Frames

For this ways to make 5 and 10 activity, choose 2 colors or patterns of mini erasers. You can also use plastic math cubes or counting bears. Have students arrange the 2 colors in a 5 or 10 frame to show various ways to make 5 or 10.

Then, have them write the number pair on a whiteboard to show their understanding. This is great practice for beginning addition skills.

You can also use number pair cards and have students draw a card and then model the number pair with their mini erasers or manipulatives.

#4. Race to Make 5 or 10

This math game is a simple, yet exciting way to practice making 5 and 10. Write number pairs to 5 and 10 on notecards. Pass out the cards so each student has one. Give them a few seconds to look at the card without showing it to anyone.

When you say “GO,” students will hold up their card and look around the room, racing to get in groups of “Makes 5” and “Makes 10.” Each student in the group will then read their number pair aloud. This is a great way to practice differentiating number pairs to 5 and 10.

#5. Number Tower Match

For this activity, supply individual students with 2 colors of plastic math cubes. If you're practicing making 5, give them 5 of each color. If you're practicing making 10, give them 10 of each color.

Write number pairs to 5 or 10 on notecards. Students will draw a card and model the number pair using their counters.

You can differentiate this activity by giving them number cards with pairs to 5, pairs to 10, or both pairs to 5 and 10.

#6. Sticky Note Number Pairs

To prepare this activity, draw a simple 5 or 10 frame on the whiteboard. Call out a number pair and have students take turns coming to the whiteboard and using 2 colors of sticky notes to model number pairs.

After they've modeled the number pair, have them write the number pair on the whiteboard, such as “3 and 2 make 5.” You can even use this as an opportunity to practice writing addition equations and have them write “3+2=5.”

You can also do this activity using a magnetic ten-frame set on the whiteboard. If you wanted to do this as a game at the carpet, you could make a giant ten-frame out of painter's tape and have students use 2 colors of party plates to model the number pairs.

#7. Shake and Spill

Shake and Spill is a fun, hands-on way to practice making 5 and 10. Supply students with 2-color counters and a plastic or styrofoam cup. Students will put the counters in the cup, place their hand over the top, and shake the cup.

Then they will spill the counters onto the table and sort the colors to show the number pair. They will write the number pair on a whiteboard and continue shaking and spilling.

There are several Shake and Spill activities you can do to practice showing number pairs to 5 and 10. Students can color in a 5 or 10 frame to show the number pair, use counters on a five or ten-frame mat, practice writing equations, etc.

#8. Making 5 or 10 Rainbow

You can also practice ways to make 5 and 10 using a Making 5 or 10 Rainbow. You'll need a large piece of chart paper and rainbow colored markers. Begin by writing “Ways to Make 5” or “Ways to Make 10” on the top of the paper.

Use the first color of the rainbow, red, to draw a large rainbow arch. At one end of the arch, write the number 0 and at the other end, write the number 5. Use an orange marker to draw the next arch. Write the numbers 1 and 4 at the ends. Then, use a yellow marker to draw another arch and write the numbers 2 and 3 at the ends.

On the left side of the rainbow, you have the numbers 0, 1, and 2. On the right side of the rainbow, you have the numbers 3, 4, and 5. Under the left side, read the number pairs left to right, across the arch, and write the addition equations. For example, on the left side, you'll write 0+5=5, 1+4=5, and 2+3=5.

Under the right side, read the number pairs right to left, across the arch, and write the addition equations. For example, on the right side, you'll write 5+0=5, 4+1=5, and 3+2=5.

You can add more arches and equations to show ways to make 10.

#9. Magnetic Number Pairs

Mix up the making 5 and 10 practice by using magnetic numbers and counters to model and show number pairs. You can use these in various ways to differentiate the learning.

Students can draw a number pair notecard and model the number pair using the magnetic counters. They can then build the equation using the magnetic numbers.

They can also model their own number pairs to 5 or 10 using the counters and then build the matching equation.

Students could even work in partners for this activity. Each partner would model a number pair using counters. They would switch places, look at the number pair, and build the equation.

I hope these ways to make 5 and 10 activities for kindergarten have given you new ideas to practice this important skill with your students.

If you'd like to see more activities for making 5 and 10, including the ones shown in this blog post, check out my Ways to Make 5 and 10 Bundle.

This article, like many other articles on The Printable Princess, contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through the links, I earn a small commission.  We only share links to resources and products we love.

What Are The Benefits of Morning Tubs?

If you're new to using them, check out the list of benefits of morning tubs below. If you'd like to dive into the benefits further, check out this kindergarten morning tubs blog post.

Consistency

Remember when I said morning tubs can transform your classroom from chaos to consistency? It's true! Morning tubs offer your students a consistent start to their day. When your students walk in the door, they know exactly what to do… grab their morning tub and get started on their activity for the day.

Organization

Have you experienced mornings where worksheets, school supplies, and scraps of paper are everywhere? Talk about a stressful start to the day. Morning tubs provide organization by using minimal supplies and keeping everything your students need to complete the activity in one place, no messes allowed.

Soft start

Just like adults, students need a little time in the morning to get their brains going. While adults may grab a cup of coffee, students can use morning tubs to warm up their brains and prepare their bodies for a day of learning. Morning tubs allow students to have fun, use fine motor skills, and learn all at the same time!

Practice key skills

Morning tubs also k=akkiw to practice important math and literacy skills. They help students work more independently and gain confidence in the skills they're practicing.

What Supplies Do You Need For Morning Tubs?

When it comes to morning tub ideas for kindergarten you're looking for hands-on and easy to prep activities. The best part about morning tubs is that you can use basic classroom supplies that you already have.

Additionally, you can do several activities throughout the year with the same supplies. Use the supplies differently to keep the activities fresh or use them the same way with a different skill. The options are truly endless.

Some of my favorite classroom supplies to use with morning tubs are:

• Play dough
• Dominoes
• Dot cubes
• Counting bears
• Plastic math cubes
• Color links
• Mini erasers – apples, stars, pets
• Mini clothespins
• Plastic spinners
• Whiteboards and dry-erase markers
• Pattern blocks
• Letter tiles
• Letter stamps
• Magnetic letters & numbers
• Letter cards
• Picture cards
• Metal rings to store cards
• Plastic trays

What Are Some Morning Tub Ideas for Kindergarten?

Now let's dive into some easy-to-prep and differentiate morning tub ideas for kindergarten. Remember, you can differentiate these activities by making the skill easier or more challenging, or by swapping out the skill being practiced.

Play dough Activities

Play dough isn't just for making snakes and pretend baking…play dough is perfect for helping students practice letters, numbers, shapes, counting, and more.

Students can use play dough independently to form uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, or shapes on play dough mats. They can even do this on cookie sheets or plastic placemats. This is especially effective at the beginning of the year.

Students can even work with a partner to practice matching uppercase and lowercase letters. One partner can form the uppercase letter and one partner can form the lowercase letter to match. Similarly, one partner can form a number while the other forms the same number of play dough balls to match.

Domino Activities

Dominoes are perfect for morning tubs as they help students practice counting, matching, and one-to-one correspondence. Students can line dominoes up, counting and matching the numbers on each end to make a domino maze.

They can also count the dots on each domino, say the number, and then count out that many objects to match. They can use objects such as mini erasers, color links, or counting bears. This is great practice for one-to-one correspondence.

Counting Bears and Plastic Math Cubes Activities

Counting bears and plastic math cubes are super versatile when it comes to morning tub ideas for kindergarten. They can be used to sort by color, count groups, make groups to show a number, or even to show equal groups.

Students can grab a handful of counting bears, count how many, and then model an equal group with plastic math cubes. They can also use these manipulatives to solve problems and model number pairs to 5 or 10 by using 2 colors to show the number pairs.

Pattern Block Activities.

Pattern blocks are perfect for sorting by size, shape, and color. These are great for practicing visual discrimination skills. Students can also use pattern blocks to practice making basic graphs and working with data.

For example, students can grab a handful of pattern blocks and make a simple graph to show the number of each pattern block they have. Then, they can tell how many of each pattern block and compare to see which shape has the most and the least.

Pattern blocks are great for free play, building, and creating. Sometimes letting students create freely at the beginning of the day is the best way to warm up their brains.

Dot Cube Activities

Dot cubes are also very versatile and make differentiating morning tub activities a breeze. Students can roll a dot cube and write the number on a whiteboard with a dry-erase marker. To make it more challenging, they can roll 2 dot cubes, count how many in all, and then write the number.

To practice counting and one-to-one correspondence, students can roll a dot cube and count out that many objects, such as mini erasers or colorful links.

Color Links Activities

Color links are fun for students and allow them to work their fine motor muscles as they connect and take apart the links.

Students can use the links as a way to sort by color or to practice non-standard measurement. Students can choose a basic object, such as a glue bottle or pair of scissors, and connect color links to see how many links long it is.

Letter Tiles and Letter Cards Activities

There are so many morning tub ideas for kindergarten that you can do with letter tiles and letter cards. You can mix up a set of uppercase letter tiles or cards and a set of lowercase letter tiles or cards and have students match them.

They can also use a stack of either uppercase, lowercase, or mixed letter tiles or cards to practice letter sounds. They will flip over the first letter tile or card, say the sound, and flip the next card. This can be done in partners, taking turns.

Magnetic Letters and Letter Stamps Activities

Magnetic letters and letter stamps are perfect for practicing building names, sight words, and CVC words later on in the year.

Students can practice building their names with magnetic letters or letter stamps. To practice sight words, you can include a simple list of sight words in the morning tub and have students build the words. The same can be done later on with CVC words.

Picture Card Activities

Picture cards provide a great visual for students and can be used with several morning tub activities. Students can choose a picture card, draw a picture, and write a sentence about it. At the beginning of the year, you can differentiate by having students draw and label a picture.

As students learn more about rhyming words, they can choose a picture card and say a word that rhymes. To practice blending sounds in CVC words later in the year, students can draw a picture card, sound out the CVC word, and write the word on a whiteboard.

I hope you feel more equipped than ever to start implementing morning tubs in your classroom. They are so doable and effective with the right supplies and activities. With these morning tub ideas for kindergarten, you'll be set with a ton of activities to use throughout the year.

Did you love these morning tub ideas and want more…even for the entire school year? You can check out my Kindergarten Morning Tubs Bundle, complete with 9 months' worth of seasonal morning tub activities to use all year long! These kindergarten morning tubs activities are planned for you, include “I Can” cards, and progress throughout the year. What more could you want!?

To learn more about storing and organizing your morning tubs, check out this blog post.

Math Manipulatives

Using mini erasers in the classroom as math manipulatives is one of the best ways to incorporate these into your day.

Number Sense, Addition, and Subtraction

One way to use mini erasers is with count and build activities and to practice one-to-one correspondence. Have students count sets of mini erasers or model a number with mini erasers. 

Mini erasers are a great fine motor tool for students to use to build numbers and practice number formation. You can use mini eraser mats to help them practice. Add a pair of chunky tweezers and your students will have a blast building fine motor skills while learning more about writing numbers. Encourage your students to build from top to bottom, left to right to encourage directionality. 

Using mini erasers in the classroom to model addition and subtraction problems is another effective way to use these tools. To model addition problems, have students use two different sets of mini erasers to solve the problem and find the sum.

To model subtraction problems, have students use one set of mini erasers and take away the number shown in the number sentence to find the difference. This visual aid and hands-on element will help students grasp the concepts of adding to and taking away. 

Sorting, Patterns, Graphing, and Measurement

Students can also practice sorting and making patterns with mini erasers. Give students a small pile of various themed mini erasers and have them sort the erasers by theme. Your students can even sort mini erasers into the proper categories as they help you pick up and store mini erasers. 

To practice making patterns, provide students with 2-3 different themes of mini erasers. Encourage them to practice creating various patterns, such as AB, ABC, AAB, ABB, etc. This encourages visual discrimination skills, which is key in kindergarten.  

Mini erasers are also helpful during your graphing and measurement units. Students can use different sets of mini erasers to graph and solve problems. They can also use mini erasers to mark the spaces on any graph to show how many.

Mini erasers are perfect for practicing nonstandard measurement skills as well. Simply have students line up mini erasers to measure the object. Then, have them tell how many mini erasers it takes to measure the length, height, or width of the object. 

Literacy Manipulatives

Math isn't the only subject manipulatives come in handy for. Using mini erasers in the classroom as literacy manipulatives is another great option. Similar to building numbers with mini erasers, the same can be done to build letters with mini eraser mats. You can also practice building words. 

As your students learn their uppercase and lowercase letters and how to properly form them, building with mini erasers is a great way to give them more exposure and practice. They can even practice letter identification by using mini erasers in an activity such as Letter Roll. 

Mini erasers are super handy to have during word work. Use them to practice building sight words, CVC words, CVCe words, etc. Your students can even use mini erasers to identify sight words, number words, or color words in sentences by placing a mini eraser under the word. 

Mini erasers can help students count syllables in words. They can even push up or touch them when sounding out words. The act of moving or touching a small manipulative such as a mini eraser is very helpful when sounding out and blending sounds in words, especially for your hands-on and visual learners. 

Another way to use mini erasers as literacy manipulatives is to incorporate them into your writing block. Students thrive when they have a writing prompt or a sentence starter to write about. Since mini erasers are themed, seasonal, and fun to look at, they are the perfect sentence starter for students to begin with. 

Simply place the mini eraser on your students' lined writing paper and have them draw a picture around it. Then have them write a sentence about it. No more writer's block here…mini erasers to the rescue! 

Game Pieces

Mini erasers aren't just great for using as manipulatives, they also make the best game pieces! Using mini erasers in the classroom as game pieces is a fun way to switch up any game you're playing or give students free choice. You can have them choose their own set of mini erasers to use for game pieces. This makes them feel special and valued. 

Mini erasers are perfect for using as Bingo game markers or as game board pieces during math and literacy games. Your students can use a different mini eraser for each round of the game. This makes it feel fresh and new each time they play. Mini erasers are also good game pieces for roll and cover games, such as this free Pizza Parlor game.

You can grab this mini eraser game plus other mini eraser freebies by filling out the form at the bottom of this post. 

Fine Motor Activities

Using mini erasers in the classroom for fine motor activities is an effective way to build those little hand muscles and encourage direction following skills. Students can practice moving mini erasers by grasping them with chunky tweezers.

Students can even hide mini erasers in kinetic sand or sprinkles and challenge their friends to find them with their hands or by pulling them out with tweezers. This makes a perfect fine motor center.

Mini erasers are great for free play time as well. Students can use their imagination with mini erasers during free play or even use them to build, create mazes, or make scenes. 

Class Rewards

Using mini erasers in the classroom as rewards for students is an effective way to encourage positive behavior and hard work. Plus, students love mini erasers and will work hard to earn them. They can work to earn them as an individual reward or as a class.

To use this as an individual reward, students can either earn a new mini eraser or a small set of mini erasers to keep. They can also work to earn the opportunity to choose their own set of mini erasers to use during class for the day or week. 

To use this as a whole class classroom management strategy, have students work to fill a jar with mini erasers. Each time the whole class is making a good choice or working hard collectively, add a mini eraser to the jar. 

Fill out the form below to join our email family and have this mini eraser freebie delivered right to your inbox!

I hope these ideas for using mini erasers in the classroom gave you new ideas and inspiration for incorporating these into your day. Which of these ideas are you going to implement first? Let me know in the comments section!

#1. Use a Pre-made 100's Chart

For this numbers to 100 activity, students are going to build number sense, match colors, problem-solve, identify number patterns, and work together as a team. Aren't these multi-skill activities the best? All you need are colored plastic math cubes and circle stickers (like those used for garage sales). This numbers to 100 activity is great for small groups or math centers.

To prep, all you need to do is grab a pre-made hundreds chart and use small sticky notes to cover most numbers, leaving random numbers blank. To begin, have students work together using colored plastic math cubes to make 10 sets of 10, each set in a different color. Students will work as a team to line up the sets of math cubes, making a 100s chart pattern on either the carpet or a table.

Next, students will take turns labeling each row of cubes with the stickers. When the whole chart is labeled, students will take turns finding a missing number and using the 100s chart to determine what the number is. They'll use a marker to fill in the missing numbers and complete the 100s chart.

To differentiate, you can leave more or less numbers blank. You can also work on number patterns by leaving the counting by 2s, 5s, or 10s numbers blank and discuss number patterns as students solve.

#2. Number Chart Riddles

Next up on the list of numbers to 100 activities is Number Chart Riddles. Students love solving riddles and acting as number detectives, so this activity is sure to grab their attention and keep it. To prep, simply write number riddles on notecards, such as “Find a number greater than 56 but less than 60. What number did you choose?” or “I'm less than 98 and 2 greater than 94. What am I?”

You can get creative with your number riddles and make them easier or more challenging for your students. If you use these number chart riddles as a small group warm-up game, you can make different leveled sets of riddles to differentiate for your students.

Students will use a 100s chart to determine the number, write the number on a sticky note, and cover the number. You can use a pocket chart 100s chart that you already have in your classroom, draw a 100s chart on the whiteboard, or use the math cube 100s chart from the previous activity.

#3. What's Missing?

This numbers to 100 activity is a simple, DIY math game that will help your students identify patterns in the 100s chart as they build number sense. Simply draw a 100s chart or write a string of numbers on the whiteboard. You can also use a 100s pocket chart and numbers to 100 cards. Write or fill in numbers, leaving several spots empty. You can differentiate the amount of numbers you leave blank or leave different number patterns blank.

Students will take turns choosing a blank space and either writing in the missing number or finding the number card that is missing to fill in the missing number. This is a great opportunity to identify numbers, discuss number patterns, practice counting, and work on writing larger numbers.

#4. Numbers to 100 STEM Challenge

Your students are going to have a blast with this STEM challenge. All you need are 100 plastic party cups. Students will work together in partners or small groups to build a tower structure using all 100 cups. As they add cups to the tower, they must count together to ensure they use all 100 cups.

You can also have students write numbers to 100 in marker on the cups as they add each cup to the tower. This is a great way to encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, cooperative learning, and creativity.

#5. Skip Counting Surprise

Break out your fun pointers for this numbers to 100 activity, because your students are going to be the teacher for this math game. Using a 100s chart either in your classroom or drawn on a whiteboard, students will take turns coming up to the chart, closing their eyes, and using a pointer to point to a number.

They'll open their eyes, say the number they landed on, and lead the whole class in skip counting by 10s down the chart. You can differentiate this activity by skip counting by 2s, 5s, or simply counting on by 1s to 100 from the number they landed on. This is a great whole group math or calendar time activity for practicing different counting patterns.

#6. Numbers to 100 Boom Cards

Are you looking for a digital, self-checking way to practice numbers to 100? Numbers to 100 Boom Cards are sure to be a class favorite. Begin by having students use the digital 100s chart to identify the 3 missing numbers and type in the correct numbers next to the pictures.

Once they're confident with this skill, they can move on to the Seashell Numbers to 100 deck where they'll drag and drop 9 different seashell number tiles onto the 100s chart to fill in the missing numbers. This is the perfect addition to your math centers to encourage independent learning.

#7. Spill the Beans

This numbers to 100 activity doubles as a sweet treat for your students. To play, fill plastic party cups with different amounts of jelly beans. You can also use dry beans or mini erasers. Students will take turns choosing a cup. They'll dump their jelly beans on a paper plate and count them, organizing them into groups of 10.

Once they have all of their groups of 10 and leftover ones, they'll place the beans back into the cup, counting as they go. You can add a fine motor element by having them use jumbo tweezers to place the beans back into the cup.

After determining the number of beans, they'll write the number on a sticky note and stick it to the outside of the cup. After all students have written their number, they'll work together to arrange the cups in order from least to greatest. This would be perfect for small groups or math centers.

#8. Groups of 10

To play this game, create 10 large squares on the carpet using painters tape. You can also place 10 baskets on the floor instead. Have students work together to collect groups of 10 objects from around the room to place in each square. For example, they can fill one square with 10 markers, another with 10 blocks, and so on. After each square is full, practice counting by 1s and 10s to 100 as a class.

I hope you enjoyed reading about these 8 numbers to 100 activities and will incorporate them into your math lessons. Comment below which activity you're trying first with your students.

#1. Teen Number Ten Frame Fill

I may be biased, but I truly believe ten frames are one of the best manipulatives to teach numbers 11-19. They give students such a great visual for breaking teen numbers down into groups of tens and ones.

For this activity, build a double ten frame on the carpet using painter's tape or duck tape. (You can find fun colors and patterns of duck tape at the craft store). You can also use number mats for this activity. 

Next, fill up the top ten frame with 10 colored party plates. You can also use bean bags, mini erasers, pom poms, or anything that you have in your classroom. Write teen numbers on notecards or use number flashcards that you already have and mix them up, laying them face down.

Students will take turns drawing a teen number card and using the party plates to count on from ten, filling the second ten frame to build the teen number. All students will write the teen number on a whiteboard and say the number sentence aloud. For example, “10 and 5 makes 15.”

#2. Act It Out!

This activity for helping you teach numbers 11-19 is a 2-for-1 teacher deal as it serves as a great number sense activity AND a brain break! To play, write down different moves on notecards, such as hop, jumping jack, arm circle, squat, etc. You will also need a stack of notecards with teen numbers written on them.

Each student will take turns drawing a move card and a number card. They'll read the number aloud and lead the class as they count and act out that many moves together as a class. This gives students the opportunity to learn kinesthetically and get their wiggles out. Active learning at it's finest.  

#3. Base Ten Teen Numbers

Another great strategy to help teach numbers 11-19 is to break them down with base 10. You'll need those same teen number cards from the previous activities and base 10 blocks. You can get creative and use pretzel rods and marshmallows for the tens and ones also. After math class, your students will have a sweet treat to enjoy.

Have the students take turns drawing a number card, reading it aloud to the class, and building the number with their base 10 manipulatives on either their desk, a paper plate, or a place value number mat. This would be a great whole group activity to practice the skill or a small group activity to help students grasp the concept and work on the numbers they need to focus on most.  

#4. Base 10 Teen Number Boom Cards

Working with teen numbers using the base 10 strategy is a deep concept for kindergarteners. Therefore, giving them several opportunities to work with this strategy is key. Incorporating technology into the learning with base 10 teen number Boom Cards is an interactive way for students to practice and get instant feedback with these 27 self-checking digital task cards. 

They'll practice looking at the base 10 blocks and determining the teen number shown as well as looking at the picture and determining how many tens and ones there are and how many there are in all.

#5. Number Chart Mix Up

Kindergarteners love playing a good game of “fix up the mix up!” Good news for you, it's simple prep, too. As in, you can get this ready during their recess time and STILL have time to run to the bathroom. #teacherproblems right?!

Use any number cards that you have and place them in counting order, either in a pocket chart, on a table, or on the carpet. If you have a 100's pocket chart in your classroom, that would work great. Then, mix up a few numbers so they're out of order. Have students take turns finding the mix up and fixing it up to put them back in order.

As their skills grow, you can mix up more numbers and add bigger numbers. You could eventually work up to 100. After each round, have your students close their eyes as you mix them up again. 

#6. Mystery Teen Numbers

The last idea to teach numbers 11-19 will have your little detectives begging for more mystery math! To play, give students a hint as to what the number is, such as, “I'm larger than 12 but smaller than 14. Who am I?”

They'll use their critical thinking skills to determine what the number is. This would be a great small group or math center activity to do at a table near a number line or number chart in your classroom. Once they determine the number, they'll use jumbo tweezers to count that many marshmallows or pom poms into a plastic cup for a little fine motor practice.

Do you have an extra pep in your step now that you have 6 fresh ways to help your students learn those tricky teens? If you liked any of the resources found in this blog post, you can check them all out plus more in my numbers 11-20 bundle. This might just be your tricky teen best friend!

#1. Subtraction Bowling

This subtraction activity for kindergarten is engaging and so much fun for students. You can play in whole group or small groups. To play subtraction bowling, simply set up 10 plastic party cups or toilet paper tubes in the shape of bowling pins. Stagger them in rows, 4 in the back row, then 3, 2, and 1 “bowling pin” in the front. Use a small ball to go bowling.

Students will take turns rolling the ball to see how many bowling pins they knock over. Each student will write the subtraction problem on whiteboards and read the subtraction sentence aloud. For example, if one student knocks down 5 bowling pins, all students will write 10-5=5. This activity works great if played in an open area of your classroom or even in the hallway. 

You can also grab your own bowling set to keep in your classroom. You could use this for several activities, including subtraction bowling, addition bowling, number recognition, color recognition, indoor recess, and more. Talk about working those gross motor skills, too!

#2. Subtraction to 10 Boom Cards

This engaging subtraction activity for kindergarten is the perfect way to incorporate technology into your math lessons. Students will solve subtraction problems on 30 digital task cards. Each task card has audio directions so your students know exactly what to do to be successful. Use this as a whole group or small group activity, independent learning center, or assessment.

Not only will your students have fun moving the digital bees into the honey jar to solve the problem and type their answer, but they'll love getting instant feedback on their answers. Plus, that means less grading and no prep for you as the teacher. These subtraction to 10 Boom Cards are great for active learners, visual learners, and auditory learners. 

#3. Act It Out

Act it out is a hands-on and engaging subtraction activity that encourages teamwork and collaboration amongst students. To play, line students up in a ten-frame shape. You can even use painters tape to make a giant ten-frame. Start by making the outside perimeter, then do a long strip down the middle and smaller strips to make the 10 sections.

Have students take turns standing in the spaces to represent 10 counters. Read a subtraction story problem aloud and have students act the problem out, using themselves as counters in the ten-frame. Have them all say the subtraction sentence aloud. You can also have them write it on a white board.

Act It Out-Dice Edition

For another way to play, have students line up in the ten-frame. Students will take turns rolling a large foam dice. Whatever number they land on is the number of students that will be taken away from the ten-frame. 

#4. Roll and Race

Roll and Race is a kid favorite subtraction activity for kindergarten. It brings an element of excitement and competition to your subtraction lessons that is highly motivating for kids. There are 30 no prep games included, 10 addition, 10 subtraction, and 10 mixed practice. 

Students will roll a dice and match the number to the column on their game board. They'll solve the first available problem, either coloring in or covering the space with a manipulative when they've solved it correctly. Students can play independently or with a partner to race to see who can fill a column up first. 

#5. Play Dough Smash

Just the name of this subtraction activity for kindergarten sounds like fun, doesn't it? To play this hands-on game, roll play dough into 10 small balls. This is great fine motor practice as well as size comparison practice for your students. Then, lay the play dough in a ten-frame pattern.

Write subtraction equations on a notecard or sticky note. Students will draw a problem and model it with their play dough by smashing the play dough balls they need to take away. After they've solved it, they can write their subtraction sentence on a white board and roll their play dough back into shape to play again.

#6. Know and Show

Know and Show is another hands-on subtraction activity for kindergarten to help them learn to solve equations and model them using a variety of strategies, including modeling with manipulatives, using a number line, using a ten-frame, and using number bonds.

Students will read the math sentence on the activity card and solve using the strategy shown on the addition or subtraction mat. Then, they'll show their answer using either dry-erase markers, magnetic numbers, number tiles, etc. There are 130 different addition and subtraction problem cards included for a ton of meaningful practice and differentiation. 

#7. Cookie Flip

Subtraction Cookie Flip is a math center treat your students will love. Using cardstock or foam circle cutouts, have your students decorate the circles to look like cookies. You can have students decorate 5 cookies each if you're playing in partners or 10 cookies each if playing independently.

To play, place 10 cookies on a cookie sheet. Students will roll the dice, flipping that number of cookies over with a flat spatula to model the subtraction problem. They can write the equation on a whiteboard for extra practice. If playing in partners, students will take turns rolling, flipping, and solving. 

Bonus: Addition and Subtraction to 10 Bundle

If you're loving the subtraction activities for kindergarten included in this blog post, you can check out all 9 games, activity mats, and worksheets included in this low prep, highly engaging addition and subtraction to 10 bundle. The activities included are perfect for learning all year long. 

Your students will have their brains trained for subtraction and be mastering the art of “take away” in no time. I hope you and your students have a blast with these subtraction activities for kindergarten!

#1: Ten-Frame Fill

Ten-frames are the ultimate way to practice number sense. Students flip over number cards and fill in ten-frames with the proper number of counters. There are so many fun things you can use as counters, such as lego cubes, counting bears, bottle caps, colored marbles, cotton balls, shells, mini erasers, etc. By rotating materials often, you can keep this activity fresh and fun for your students, as it will feel new each time.

As your students progress, you can use multiple ten-frames to practice larger numbers.

If you want a done-for-you activity, check out this year-long ten frames unit. There are over 25 themes included, which is sure to keep ten frames fun and fresh all year long.

#2: Domino Match

Dominos are another great manipulative to use with kindergarten. This activity requires a deck of number cards (remove face cards) and a supply of dominos. First, students flip over a number card. Then they find a domino that has that same number of dots and match them up.

Another activity students can use dominos for is matching the ends of the dominos according to number. Challenge them to see what creation they can come up with by matching numbers and turning their dominos in different directions. This is also great for problem-solving!

#3: Play Dough Numbers

Using play dough is another great way to practice number sense along with fine motor skills. Before this activity, model how to roll out long “snakes” and form small balls with play dough. Allow your students to practice doing this. Once they're good and ready, have your students use the play dough “snakes” to form the numbers 1 through 10.

You can also have them make and match the correct number of balls with each number. If you're looking for some ready-made play dough mats, you can check out these Numbers to 10 Playdough Mats – just print and laminate!

#4: Bingo Dabbers

Using bingo dabbers with counting activities for kindergarten is a ton of fun! There are so many ways to incorporate them as well. One idea is to have students roll a dice and dab that many dots on a large sheet of paper. You can also use a spinner or number cards to select the number.

Another idea is to have students form the number using bingo dabbers. Simply write the number in a large print on a piece of paper. Have students use bingo dabbers to trace or dab over the print to form the number. You can also use pre-made no-prep number pages, designed specifically for bingo dabbers. For more ideas on how to use bingo dabbers in the classroom, click here!

#5: Number Puzzles

There are tons of great number puzzles you can find at the dollar store, but you can also make them in just a few simple steps! To make your own, use mini paper plates to create number puzzles. Cut each plate in half using a different pattern. For example, cut one plate using a zig zag pattern, another using a curved line pattern, etc.

For each puzzle, write a number on one half of the plate. On the other half, draw that number of dots. Mix up the pieces of 6-8 puzzles and have students solve the puzzles by matching them up.

#6: Build a Tower

Students love to build, and luckily building with manipulatives is great for counting, fine motor skills, problem solving, and spatial awareness! Students can roll dice, flip a number card, or spin a spinner to select a number. Then, they use plastic counting cubes to build a tower that matches the number. To take this activity one step further, have your students arrange the towers in number order.

#7: Magnetic Numbers

Magnetic numbers come in handy for several counting activities for kindergarten. One idea is to put them in a container or basket. Have students select them, one at a time, and put them in order on their desk or a magnetic board.

Another way they can use magnetic numbers it to practice counting on with number mats. Students will look at the first number on the mat and count on using magnetic numbers (or they can use the printable number cards included).

#8: Number Link-Up

This activity uses plastic links, which are fun for kids and also is great for building fine motor skills and coordination.  Students select a number card and count out that number of plastic links. They will then link them together to show the number. If you have different colors, students can also practice patterns while doing this activity.

#9: Make the Recipe

This is such a fun counting activity for kindergarten! First, line muffin tins with paper liners. Mark each paper liner with a different number. Students will take a tin and a supply of magnetic numbers and match the magnets to the correct muffin cup. There are a lot of variations you can do with this activity, too!

Instead of writing the number, you could mark different numbers using dots on each paper liner and have students match the magnetic number to the dots. You could also have students count out the correct number of plastic bears, mini erasers, large beads or buttons, etc.

#10: Number Grab

Kids love this activity, and as a bonus, it's great for building strength in those little hand muscles. Prepare a stack of paper plates by writing a number in the center of each.

Give students a basket of small pom-poms. Students will choose a plate and use tongs or chunky tweezers to pick up the correct number of pom-poms and place them on each plate.

#11: Stringing Up Numbers

For this activity, you will need pipe cleaners and plastic beads. Before the activity, model how to curl the end of the pipe cleaner so the beads don't fall off.

Have students curl one end of their pipe cleaner. Students will then draw a number card and string that many plastic beads onto the pipe cleaner. They will curl the other end when they are done and move onto a new number and pipe cleaner.

#12: Deal the Cards 

This would be a fun partner activity for students to play to work on counting. All you need is an ordinary deck of playing cards and a number mat for each player.

Students take turns flipping over a card and placing it on the number mat. If a number already has a card on top of it, the student puts the card face down in front of them. Once the mat is completely filled with numbers, students count up their cards to see who has the fewest cards left.

#13: Make a Deposit

For this activity, you will need used paper towel and toilet paper tubes. You can ask families to donate these or save them from your home.

Once you have a large supply, write a number at the top of each tube. Put a basket of small items on the table. You can use pom-poms, plastic counting cubes, plastic bears, colorful discs, etc.

Students will look at the number on the tube and count out that many items. They will drop them into the tube. They love hearing the different sounds the objects make!

When they think they have deposited the right amount of items, they can pull the tube up and count the items on the table, practicing the concept again.

#14: Digital Task Cards

Boom cards are digital task cards that are fun, interactive, and self-checking! This set of interactive, self-checking Number to 10 Mini Deck Boom cards work on a variety of number sense skills.

These digital activities can be used with many learning platforms or as a technology center. Students will listen to the audio directions and complete the task on the digital card by dragging and dropping the objects on the screen. Kids love these!

I hope these counting activities for kindergarten will inspire the young mathematicians in your classroom. Rotate these activities into your independent practice stations, math centers, or early finisher activities.  You can adapt each activity with different numbers and materials to meet the needs of your students.