All activities 190

Skip counting is a crucial first step in teaching multiplication. Counting forward using numbers other than 1 will help children begin to notice number patterns. Start with 2s, 5s and 10s.

Children love the rhythm and repetition in this popular story by Julia Donaldson and they will have fun completing a treasure hunt after reading the book. 

When progressing to more difficult texts, writing begins to replace images and children must rely more on creating their own mental images of what is happening in a story. The more we encourage this skill in the early years, the easier it will be for children to do this independently as they begin to graduate to higher level texts.

Reading comprehension can be improved through summarisation. After finishing a book, remember to discuss the key points. 

From an early age, the skill of inferring and making connections with the reading information is crucial. When reading with your children, use the recommended discussion topics to improve reading comprehension. 

Popsicle/lolly sticks have so many uses, especially at this time of year! Use markers or paint to decorate the sticks and glue them together to make Christmas tree decorations.

Finding fun ways of practising the shape of numbers is important for keeping kids engaged. Play dough can be a fun way to represent the shapes of numbers.

Number bonds to 10 are a very important foundation for understanding how numbers work. Practising number bonds with play dough is a fun sensory activity which brings number bonds to life. 

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.

Practise reading and sequencing skills with this matching cards game based on the book, Pete the Cat, Trick or Pete. Have spooky fun all year round

Children must learn the shape of numbers before being able to write them with confidence. This activity uses dry penne pasta to promote number recognition.

Fingers make the best pencil when it comes to practicing letter formation. Develop writing skills with this fun, sensory repetition exercise.

This game helps children learn how to use letters to build words by experimenting with their sounds.