Here's a hands-on Shell Dig; Count invitation that brings early numeracy to life through play-based learning and sensory exploration!
Start by filling your tuff tray with kinetic sand, play sand or cloud dough, and hide colourful plastic seashells and ocean treasures inside Add scoops, tongs, and a sorting grid and let the counting adventure begin!
Children will dig, discover, sort and count each shell onto ten-frames marked 1-10, practising one-to-one correspondence and early addition as they play!
Why is this activity beneficial?
Numeracy Development: Strengthens counting, sorting, number recognition and matching skills.
Fine Motor Skills: Scooping, pinching and placing shells builds coordination and hand strength.
Loose Parts Play: Encourages imaginative thinking and open-ended exploration of shapes and textures.
Extend the Learning:
Talk about the colours, patterns and shapes of shells. Ask, "How many purple shells did you find?" or "Which shell is your favourite?"
Add rulers or measuring sticks and compare shell lengths or group by size.
Read ocean-themed books alongside your play like A House for Hermit Crab or Rainbow Fish to enrich your literacy connections.
Collection includes all items to the right or items can be purchased individually.
