Math is one of many subjects that builds upon itself. Without mastering addition and subtraction, children will struggle with learning multiplication, and so on. The best way to learn and excel at any skill is through practice and repetition. The more fun and entertaining it is to practice; the more motivated and willing children will be to participate actively and retain the information. Take a look at a few of my favorite math games for kids that will help nurture an understanding and love of math early on.
Please note: I am a participant of the Amazon Services Associates Program and have included “affiliate links” for all the toys. This means that when you click the pictures or links provided and make a purchase, I receive a small commission on the toy at no extra cost to you. You can read more about the Amazon Associates Program here.
1) Clumsy Thief Junior (ad)
Clumsy Thief Junior is a simple but fast paced card game where players must add to 10 by using different combinations of numbers. The player who collects the most pairs that add up to 10 at the end of the game wins. You can learn more and purchase the game here Clumsy Thief Jr is recommended for ages 4 and up. However, if you’re looking for a greater challenge, Clumsy Thief in the Candy Shop requires children to add to 20, and .Clumsy Thief the Money game works on adding to 100.
2) Zingo 1-2-3
Zingo 1-2-3 is a Bingo math game that comes with double-sided cards and tiles for two game variations. One game focuses just on counting and recognizing numbers and the other focuses on simple addition. The addition side of the card is made up of pictures so children can add them by counting. This is a great beginner game for kids who are just learning to recognize numbers and count. Ages 4 and up. Learn more about the game and purchase it here.
3) 7 ate 9
7 ate 9 is another awesome fast paced card game only a little more advanced. In this game, players are required to either add or subtract numbers (smaller number at the top from the large number in the center) depending on which number they need. This game encourages counting, problem-solving, a quick reaction time, and concentration. It is recommended for ages 8 and up. Read more about the game here.
4) Math Lotto
When your kids have mastered Zingo 1-2-3, Math Lotto is the next best thing. The cards are also double-sided but with addition one side and subtraction on the other. Players are required to solve equations and match the numbers in order to win the game.
5) Race to 10
Race to 10 is a unique 2 player math game where players have to either add or subtract numbers that they draw from a bag (without looking) to reach the sum of 10. It requires problem-solving and basic math skills to play. Ages 6 and up.
6) Math Dice
To play Math Dice, first roll the 12-sided die and then the other 5 dice. The goal is to add or subtract the numbers that the 5 dice land on to reach the sum of the 12-sided dice. Once you do that, you can move on the game board one space for every die used. Ages 6 and up.
7) Sum Swamp
Sum Swamp is my favorite math board game. The goal is to move your swamp creatures along the board by rolling 3 dice (2 number dice and one operations dice) and solving the equation. For example if you land on a 2, a 3, and a + sign you move 5 spaces on the board. Ages 5 and up