Sandbox Math Facts

What You Need:

• a set of wooden craft "popsicle" sticks (about 20-30)
• an extra fine point permanent marker, black
• a sandbox filled with sand

What You Do:

1. Use the marker to write a math problem on the top end of the craft stick. Write the answer to the math problem on the bottom of the stick. Continue in this manner until all the sticks are labeled. (Note: These problems should be very simple addition and subtraction problems. Check with your child's teacher if you are unsure what kinds of equations are appropriate.)
2. Have your child submerge the sticks in the sand so that the problems are visible, but the answers are not.
3. Point out that these sticks would make great building materials in the sandbox. They could become bridges for sandcastles! But before your child can pull them out of the sand to play with them, he has to say the math fact and its answer out loud. Show him how to do this by choosing a stick, saying aloud the problem and the answer, then pulling the stick out of the sand to check the answer. If the answer is correct, keep the stick for sandbox play. If the answer is not correct, put the stick back in the sand.
4. After your child has practiced all his Sandbox Math Sticks, join him in some fun, creative play. Then store the sticks for later by filling a sand pail with sticks, or simply plant them in the sand again!