Addition
Addition card game
This game is played using a deck of cards, (removing the picture cards first). In turns, each player picks two cards and adds the two numbers together and says the answer. If they get the answer right, they keep the cards; if not, they have to put the cards back at the bottom of pile. The winner is the person with the most cards at the end.
Number pairs (number bonds)
Ask your child to draw a flower. In the middle of the flower, write the target number, for example 10. On the petals, write the number pairs (bonds) that add together to make the target number (1+9, 2+8, 3+7, 4+6 and so on). Once complete, you can test your child on the number bonds by covering ‘petals’ and asking them what is missing.
Using a sectioned plate or separate bowls
Using a sectioned plate (that you might use when having a buffet) or separate bowls and small objects (counters, dried pasta, marbles) is a visual and tactile way to practice solving addition. Your child can place objects into the different sections, count the objects and record the corresponding addition equation, such as 3+5 =8.
Beads on a string
Create your own counting beads by threading ten beads onto a piece of string. Your child can then move 1 to 10 beads to the left or right of the string to help create number pairs to 10 and visually present addition equations. The number beads can also help your child to solve problems involving larger numbers, for example, when adding a one digit number to two digit number by using them to count on.
Fishing for numbers
Make a fishing rod by tying a piece of string to the end of a stick or a straw. At the other end of the string, tie a metal paper clip. Place number fridge magnets in a bowl and have fun trying to fish them out. Ask your child to fish out two numbers and add them together. Record the addition equation, such as, 9+1=10.
Playing Snap or Memory
Create your own game of Snap or Memory by making pairs of cards that match, for example, write 27+3 on one card and 30 on a separate card; ‘15+9’ and ‘24’; ‘2+8’ and ‘10’; and so on. Use these cards to play Snap, Memory or simply ask your child to match up the addition cards with their corresponding answer card. You could time your child and see how quickly they can match them up and then repeat to see if they can beat their own personal best.