3.3y–5y9 minFamily timeQuiet timeFree play
Same Problem, Different Solutions Chat
A number conversation activity where the adult helps the child connect a new number problem to problems they have met before and explores how different people might solve it in different ways.
What you'll need
Essentials
- 8-10 small objects (e.g., blocks, coins, bottle tops)
- paper and pen
- two bowls/plates OR two areas on a table
Nice to have
- small toy figures (as 'people' with different solution ideas)
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 3-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneUses talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core· Steps 1, 2
- MilestoneCounts objects one-to-oneMind· 4y–4.5y· stretch· Steps 1, 3
- MilestoneExplains own knowledge and understanding, and asks appropriate questions of others.Mind· 2.5y–4.2y· stretch
- MilestoneReports the counted totalMind· 4.3y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneRecognises written numeralsMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 1
- MilestoneTalks about own interests and ideasMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 2
- MilestoneReceptive opposite understandingMind· 4y–5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneBegins to identify own mathematical problems based on own interests and fascinations.Mind· 3.3y–5y· core
What it practices
- Finds the total number of items in two groups by counting all of them.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Uses the language of ‘more’ and ‘fewer’ to compare two sets of objects.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Selects the correct numeral to represent 1 to 5, then 1 to 10 objects.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
- Counts an irregular arrangement of up to ten objects.Observable behaviour from Development Matters
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Discuss with children how problems relate to others they have met, and their different solutions.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)