Our range of EYFS outdoor maths resources includes….
Resources For Playground Maths Games:
Our extensive range of resources for maths games includes target maths boards, wooden plank sets for construction, sorting frame rails, giant fishing, jumbo 4-in-a-row games, maths activity chests, movement packs, snakes and ladders games, giant ludo, numeracy and literacy mats, hopscotch number mats, wooden maths chutes and much more!
Resources For Number Activities:
Our range of number-based activity resources includes outdoor number boards, number lines, number pebbles, number cones, number bean bags, number scarf balls and much more!
FAQ's about outdoor maths
What is outdoor mathematics?
Outdoor mathematics involves children using mathematical thinking and learning maths through experiences outdoors. This can be through counting and measuring objects, exploring shapes or just developing ideas through their outdoor play.
How do you teach maths outside?
A great way to do maths outdoors is to incorporate natural objects like leaves, twigs and stones whilst using landforms such as hills and trees to show children how math is embedded in nature. Some great ways to teach maths outside include….
- Using nature - children can use natural elements like leaves, rocks or sticks for counting, sorting or pattern-making
- Outdoor measurement - encourage children to measure objects found outside like the height of trees, length of shadows or distance between two points. This is great for teaching concepts of measurement, geometry and even basic trigonometry.
- Geometry in nature - explore geometric shapes and symmetry in nature. Identify shapes in leaves, branches and gardens.
- Scavenger hunts - organise scavenger hunts where clues involve sorting maths problems or finding objects in specific quantities
- Math trails - create maths trails around the school and stop students at different points to solve math-related challenges
- Graphing and data collection - have children collect data from the environment like certain types of plants or insects and then create graphs or charts to represent their findings.
- Estimation games - use outdoor objects for estimation activities. For example, estimating the amount of leaves on a tree.
- Outdoor maths stations - Set up different maths stations around the schoolyard, each focusing on a different concept or skill.
- Maths and movement - incorporate movement, like jumping, hopping or running to teach concepts like distance, counting and sequencing.
- Construction projects - simple building projects using natural or recycled materials can teach children about geometry, measurement and problem-solving.
What are the benefits of teaching numeracy outdoors?
Teaching numeracy outdoors has a range of benefits for children. These benefits include….
- Enhanced engagement and motivation - learning outdoors can be more stimulating and engaging for students.
- Applying maths to real life - outdoor settings provide opportunities for practical, hands-on learning and allow children to measure and learn geometry with everyday objects.
- Improved physical health - outdoor learning encourages physical activities and can be beneficial for students' overall health.
- Development of social skills - outdoor learning in groups can help children further their teamwork and communication skills.
- Reduced stress and anxiety - outdoor environments help to reduce stress and anxiety whilst creating a relaxed learning environment for children.
- Accommodating different learning styles - outdoor education can be beneficial for students
- Enhances creativity - a less structured and more open environment outdoors can help to foster creativity in problem-solving and thinking.
- Promotes inclusivity - great for students who might feel confined or restricted in a traditional classroom setting.