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Maths

Count and Move

Overview

Children combine counting with movement.

Learning Objective
Children count while performing physical actions.

Resources needed

  • Open space

Lesson stages

0 / 7 done
  1. 1 Ask children to perform actions (e.g. jump, clap).
  2. 2 Give a number (e.g. 5 jumps).
  3. 3 Count together as they move.
  4. 4 Repeat with different actions.
  5. 5 Ask children to lead.
  6. 6 Check counting accuracy.
  7. 7 Encourage confidence.

Tap a step to mark it as done.

Variations

  • Use different movements
  • Count backwards
  • Combine two actions (e.g. 3 jumps and 2 claps)
More information

Movement releases energy and improves focus. Particularly valuable in classrooms with limited resources for sitting activities.

Adapt movements for children with physical needs (e.g. clapping instead of jumping).

Can children stop at the correct number without help? Do they count accurately while moving?

Open space is the only requirement. Actions such as clapping, jumping, and stamping need no equipment.

Children often lose count during movement, particularly past 5 or 6. They may also continue past the target number because the action momentum carries them on. Practise pausing deliberately at each count.

Activity details
Early Years Easy 10–15 minutes No prep Small Group, Whole Class Indoor & Outdoor
Topics
Counting Movement