Take learning outdoors with this fun way to make math come alive. That kiddie pool isn’t just for wading any longer. Make the pool your new classroom this afternoon!
GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES
- Frisbees
- Sponges
- Marker
Yes, it is actually that easy and simple. Prep time is simple and minimal, too.
CREATING YOUR GAME
Cut your sponges into manageable sizes for little hands. These sponges were cut in half and measured about 3×4 inches.
Write numbers on the under side of the frisbees with the marker.
Write numbers or math equations on the sponges. I have children at varying math skill levels and this activity is perfect to combine interaction with all of the children, but still meet their individual levels. I made sure to write numbers (and equations) on the sponges that corresponded with the numbers already written on the frisbees.
PLAYING THE GAME
Place the frisbees upside down on the water of your pool. Don’t worry they will float.
Now hand your children the sponges and let them toss the corresponding sponge onto the frisbee. You can make it a little more challenging by stirring the pool water and causing the frisbees to float around in the current.
FUN VARIATIONS
- Very young children can just practice throwing and trying to land the sponge on the frisbee.
- Match the color of the sponge to the color of the frisbee.
- Draw shapes on the sponges and frisbees and have children match them.
- Have your children match images of opposites.
- If using just numbers and not equations, have your child throw onto the frisbee of the following number written on the sponge (example: throw sponge 7 onto frisbee 8).
NOT JUST FOR MATH
- Have children throw sponges with simple words on frisbees to form compound words.
- Write a contraction on the frisbee and have the children throw the words that combine to make up that contraction onto it. Example: ‘is’ and ‘not’ onto a frisbee that reads ‘isn’t’.
- Study science with this activity, too. Write the different phases onto frisbees and throw sponges that read ‘steam’, ‘ice’, and ‘water’ and throw those sponges onto the correct phase.
- Physical vs. chemical reactions. Make frisbees and sponges for chemical and physical reactions then have the child match up scenarios like metal rusting or cookies baking or paper tearing to the appropriate action.
**REMINDER: Please be sure to practice water safety and closely monitor your child near any container of water. Children should not be left unattended around water. Even as little as 1 inch of water can pose a drowning risk, so monitor your children closely.Only you know how well your child with do with this activity and please plan accordingly.
What do you think?