- Counts the number of steps taken while running or playing.
- Identifies and counts shapes found outside, such as circles (sun, wheels) and squares (windows, sidewalk tiles).
- Compares the size of different objects, such as trees or rocks.
- Estimates and measures distance by stepping or using landmarks.
- Recognizes patterns in nature, such as petals on a flower or lines on a leaf.
Continued development in math can be encouraged by incorporating measurement activities while playing outside. For example, have the child estimate the height of different objects, measure the circumference of a tree trunk using a string, or count and categorize the different types of plants or insects they see. They could also practice counting and skip counting while playing hopscotch or jumping on a trampoline.