Paper chains are a fun craft activity but they can also be useful for maths! Learning the 10 number bonds (numbers that add to 10) is a building block for adding and subtracting larger numbers. 

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Number bonds are simply the addition of two separate numbers. It gives kids a mental picture of the relationship between 2 numbers. These mental pictures are the key to enabling your child to do mental arithmetic. By learning how numbers can be split up and combined in useful ways, students gain a strong number sense and the ability to make mental calculations. 

For this activity: 

1. Cut strips of paper – long enough that they can be glued into circles.
2. On each strip, write a number under 10. Be sure to include two strips with the number 5.
3. Ask your child to pair up the strips of numbers such that the answer to each person is 10. Use manipulative, fingers or a number line to help if necessary.
4. After your child has connected the number pairs together, create the chains by looping the two numbers for each pair. You will need to apply glue or sellotape.