Throughout the year it’s helpful to weave in some of the same activities so kids have a chance deepen their understanding and get additional practice with important concepts. These seashell counting numbers math mats are a helpful tool for kids to use as they learn to count and show numbers in different ways.
Seashell Counting Numbers Math Mats
GET A FULL WEEK OF SHELL THEME ACTIVITIES IN OUR PRINTABLE PRESCHOOL LESSON PLANS.
You can use some or all of the pieces in this free printable to help students count and identify numbers. Then once children are able to identify numbers and are counting numbers in preschool and kindergarten we can focus in on different way to represent the same number. Doing so will help strengthen number sense skills.
Initially we can show how to represent a number with numerals, in word form, on fingers, and with sets of objects. Then we can also show different ways to compose a number using the ten-frame provided in the free printable.
SEE THESE COUNTING MATS IN ACTION
Ways to Use the Shell Counting Mats
Because I want to make sure to connect with different kids’ preferences and I want to save planning and prep time, I try to create resources that can be used in a variety of ways.
These math mats provide a ton of options!
First you’ll want to decide what manipulatives you want to set out with your counting mats. Personally I love using real seashells, but mini erasers or other beach inspired toys will work well, too.
Kids can practice sorting the shells to match the number on the counting mat. The free printable includes mats for numbers zero through ten. Use them all and spread out across the table or floor, or limit them to a specific set of numbers to help kids focus on those numbers in particular and avoid overwhelming beginning learners.
Kids finish up by placing the corresponding number of math manipulatives on the large number.
For added fine motor practice and sensory fun I like to include play dough as part of this activity. Make your favorite play dough recipe, and if you want to add a bit more beachy fun you can add in real sand to give it more of a gritty texture.
The free printable Seashell Counting Numbers Math Mats set also includes a ten-frame that can be used for kids to show the numbers in the ten-frame format. Use it during small groups to help kids learn to show numbers in the ten-frame.
The ten-frame can also be used to extend this activity by beginning to show different combinations for each number. For example kids could show that 8 can be 4 and 4 by showing 4 of one shell type and then 4 of another shell type. This is helpful to beginning to shape their understanding of early addition.
GET YOUR FREE Seashell Counting Numbers Math Mats
The 20-page seashell counting math mats freebie includes:
- Directions
- Math mats for numbers 0-10
- Individual seashells to show different ways to show numbers 0-10
- Ten-frame counting mat
Click this link if you do not see the pink download button above.
GET A FULL WEEK OF SHELL THEME LEARNING AND PLAY
Save time and get right to the playful learning with our printable lesson plan sets. Each set includes over 30 playful learning activities related to the theme, and we’ve provided different versions for home preschool families and classroom teachers so all activities are geared directly toward your needs.
This set includes active hands-on learning ideas and the following printables:
1) Collecting Seashells Counting Emergent Reader (three variations)
2) Dissolving Shells Science Experiment Recording Sheet (in color and b/w)
3) 0-35 Shell Theme Number Cards
4) Shell Roll and Graph Math Activity
5) Types of Shells Photograph and Label Cards
6) Alphabet Recording Sheet for Seashell ABC Hunt (3 versions in both color and b/w)
7) Seashell Shapes Mats and Activity
8) Beginning Sound Seashell Sort Activity
9) My Shell Words Sight Word Recording Sheets (in color and b/w)
10) A to Z Shell Theme Letter Formation Work Mats
GET YOUR LESSON PLANS
Preschool Classroom Shell Theme Lesson Plans
Find more inspiration in our ocean theme.
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