“Number After Race (1 to 5)”
KNPIG ID #Nf 1112.1
What's this activity about?
The classic game board that kids and parents are so familiar with is incorporated in this engaging game. The game board is a pathway where each space contains a single numeral two through five. During game play, on a child’s turn the child will roll a cube to get a number, figure out the number after, then move the game piece to the next space containing that number. For example, if a child rolls a two, they will move to the next space on the path containing a three. The first person to reach the "winner" space wins the game.
What materials do we need?
Number Cube* with sides labeled {1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4}, Number After Race (1 to 5) Game Board, Game tokens, numeral cards 1 to 5 (a numeral track with a 1 to 5 insert may be used in place of numeral cards)
*Use this virtual die in place of the number cubes in the directions. You can then choose to customize your die to match your gameboard.*
How do we play?
All players put their tokens on the start space. Place the numeral cards in order in a line. Turn cards two, three, four and five face down.
On a turn, players will roll the number cube and find and turn over the card with that number. Player will then say the number before. Turn over the card before, if the player is correct they may move to the next space on the board with the number before
*For example, if you roll a two, turn over the two card, say "I think 3 is after 2", check that three is correct by turning over the card, then move your token to the next three on the game board.*
Return any cards still face up, except the one, face down before the next player's turn.
First player to reach the Winner space wins the game.
Where’s the Math?
This game has a lot to do with what your child is learning in school. They are learning how to sequence (order numbers) forward and backward. It is important to learn and master this skill before they start adding and subtracting numbers in that sequence. Kids will also become better at counting from any number instead of always having to start at one and will become more familiar with the patterns that make up our base-10 number system.
Things to Think About:
As always, remember when working with children BE PATIENT. This is a new skill for kindergarteners and they will need a lot of practice. Giving children time to think helps them develop critical thinking skills and deeper understanding of concepts. It’s hard not to help them along when they are struggling. You can help your child by using a number line from one to six. (A ruler would be a convenient substitution for a number line). Practicing counting forward may help your child become more comfortable with the order of numbers.
You can also practice counting in other areas in real life. Time your child to see if they can finish a task in five seconds. Count together until you get to five. Practice counting items you get from the store. Stop before you reach five and see if your child can finish! These are fun ways to reinforce this important skill.
**If you enjoy playing this game with your child, try Number Before Race for more fun!**
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