Maths Sticks

Explore the concept of length through play by creating with Math Sticks.

Children choose a picture card, pick up a bundle of sticks in different lengths and try to re-produce the outline of the image featured on the card.

Not only will patterning and sequencing be improved through play, but children start familiarising themselves with different lengths and the relation they have to one another in order to complete a picture.

Features: 

• 10 Double sided copy cards
• 80 Wooden rods in different lengths

What our OT says:

The concept of using Math Sticks for play and learning is a fantastic way to engage children in mathematical thinking. This Maths Sticks Set is surprisingly difficult, but let’s look at how this activity can benefit your child’s  development:

• Spatial Reasoning and Patterning: When children use Math Sticks to recreate picture cards, they develop spatial reasoning skills. They learn to visualise and manipulate these sticks to form shapes, which is essential for understanding geometry and spatial relationships.
• Patterning is also enhanced as they observe the arrangement of sticks and replicate it. Recognising patterns helps build a foundation for algebraic thinking.
• Length Comparison and Measurement: By handling sticks of different lengths, children intuitively compare them. They learn about relative sizes and lengths. Measuring the sticks against each other or a reference (like the picture card) reinforces the concept of measurement. They begin to understand units of length and how they relate.
• Fine Motor Skills and Coordination: Picking up and manipulating the sticks requires fine motor control. This activity strengthens hand muscles and improves dexterity. Coordinating stick placement to match the picture card encourages precision and concentration. I sometimes add a tweezer to pick up the sticks, for some extra fine motor development.
• Problem-Solving and Strategy: As children work on different levels of difficulty, they encounter challenges. They must strategise how to arrange the sticks to match the outline.Trial and error help them develop problem-solving skills. They learn persistence and adaptability when faced with obstacles. The copy cards progress.
• Math Vocabulary and Language: Conversations during play introduce math-related vocabulary. Terms like “longer,” “shorter,” “equal,” and “length” become part of their language. Describing their actions and choices helps reinforce mathematical concepts.
• Independence: Successfully completing a picture using Math Sticks boosts children’s confidence. They feel a sense of accomplishment. Independence grows as they explore different ways to solve the puzzle and make decisions on their own.
• Multi- Sensory Engagement: Math Sticks engage multiple senses (visual, tactile, and proprioceptive) and promote cognitive, physical, and social growth.