This Valentine's Day themed maths activity is a fun and easy way to practise number recognition and simple addition from 2 to 12.

The concept of symmetry can be confusing for young minds. It is great idea to start with familiar objects that are naturally symmetrical. Randomly decorate one butterfly wing then challenge your child to match the pattern on the other wing. 

Play dough activities for early years maths helps to combine sensory activities, fine motor skills and number work which is a great way of bringing numbers to life.

The key question when teaching subtraction is “how many are left?”.

Use math word problems to bring maths to life and give meaning to concepts that can otherwise be confusing. Use real life objects (manipulatives) to explore the problems in an active, hands-on and engaging way. Stuffed animals make great manipulatives for learning maths. 

2D velcro shapes are easy and fun to make. Lolly sticks are a great resources to use when experimenting with shape. 

Scavenger hunts are a great way for children to learn through play. This activity is for all ages, but especially for children who are still learning 2D shapes.