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MOE - Nurturing Early Learners Portal

Using Manipulatives and Games

Using manipulatives and games can significantly enhance children's understanding and enjoyment of numeracy concepts.

Last updated 29 April 2025

Manipulatives

You can use the following manipulatives to help children better grasp numeracy concepts:

  • Multi-link cubes: These versatile cubes can be used for counting, sorting, and exploring other concepts such as comparison of numbers and part-whole relationship.

  • Pattern blocks: These colourful blocks can aid in teaching shapes and spatial reasoning.

  • Counters: Counters are useful for activities involving matching, sorting, counting and comparing quantities

Games

Incorporating games into numeracy learning can make the experience more engaging and enjoyable. Consider using the following games to reinforce numeracy concepts:

  • Hopscotch: This game can be adapted to incorporate numeracy by assigning numbers to the hopscotch grid and engaging children in number recognition and counting.

  • Scavenger hunts: Create numeracy-themed scavenger hunts to encourage children to search for and count specific items.

  • Board games: Various board games can be used to reinforce numeracy skills, such as games that involve counting spaces or using dice for counting and subitising.

  • Dominoes: Dominoes can be used to teach number recognition, counting, and comparing quantities.

  • Bingo: Number-based bingo games can help children practice number recognition and matching.

  • Matching card games: Card games involving number matching or sequencing can reinforce numeracy skills in an enjoyable way.

Games can also help children exercise and enhance their executive functioning skills. 

  • Inhibitory control: Children practise their inhibitory control skills when playing games that require them to focus and wait for their turn and/or think before they act. 

  • Working memory: Games like matching card games allow children to use and improve their working memory as they hold multiple pieces of information in their mind. 

  • Cognitive flexibility: Solving jigsaw puzzles or playing games with multiple outcomes promotes cognitive flexibility. These games encourage children to adapt to changing situations, think creatively and consider different approaches.