There have been many studies done on how exercise improves focus and cognition in children. So why just practice math while sitting down when we can do it while also building strength, gross motor skills, and coordination.
Take a look at a few toy ideas that will get kids moving while learning math.!:)
1) Number Spots
There are endless ways to use Number Spots in Play. Challenge kids to jump from one number to the next, solve math problems by jumping on the answers, or include them in bigger obstacle courses by completing certain movements as many times as the number shows.
2) Math marks the Spot! Floor Game
Roll the die, solve the equation, and then race to tap the answer on the giant floor mat. Kids can also jump, hop. or squat to touch the answers with their hands for an increased physical challenge.
3) Hyper Dash Extreme
Hyper Dash Extreme comes with a few different game options. My favorite is the math game where players have to solve basic math equations then quickly run to tag the target with the correct answer. What’s great about this game is that you can spread the targets as far apart or as close as you’d like (depending on the space you are using). The further apart the targets, the more kids have to run around. This game can also be played with multiple players competitively to see who can complete the task in the quickest amount of time or individually to beat your own time.
4) Stepping Stones
Stepping Stones is a cute jumping and counting game. Players roll the dice and jump from mat to mat as many spaces as the dice shows. The person to reach the finish line first is the winner.
4) Number Line Floor Mat
A giant number line is not only super engaging and motivating for kids, but can provide the visual cues kids need to understand basic addition and subtraction concepts. Jump by 3s, hop by 2s, etc. You can also incorporate this into a larger obstacle course for more fun and movement.
5) Move Cubes
Move Cubes are an open-ended versatile toy that comes in a set of 3 laminated cubes with pockets where you can insert your own instructions. Insert math equations, exercises, or any other subject that you may be working on for additional fun and practice. Use them to move ahead on any board game or on their own. You can download the BodyMoves Activity Guide for ideas.
6) Make a Splash 120 Floor Game
Make a Splash comes with a large floor number mat to encourage kids to move their bodies. Kids will have fun crawling, jumping, and squatting while manipulating inflatable dice to solve math equations. The game includes instructions for different game variations, but you and the kids are welcome to make up your own games as well. Playing Make a Splash is a great way to visually reinforce math concepts while moving.
7) Dart Board for Kids
Throwing games like this can be played alone or incorporated into obstacle courses where throwing is just one of the many steps that kids have to complete. There are lots of open-ended play opportunities here. Just remember to keep score by adding the points.
8) Giant Wooden Playing Dice Set
Add these super size dice to any regular board game for an additional gross motor challenge. Play Yahtzee or make up your own games as you run, throw, and count while having fun with the whole family.
9) Learn & Groove Musical Mat
As you may already know, electronic toys are not typically my favorite (to say the least). However, they can be made in a smart way. This is one example of an electronic toy that is pretty awesome. The idea is to jump from spot to spot as the game calls out different animals and numbers. This is great for number recognition, gross motor movement, social interaction, auditory processing, and more.
If you’d like to learn more about the concept of using movement to learn math, this book is a great resource. It provides tons of new ideas for ways use movement to teach and practice math.