Objective

By the end of this lesson, the toddler will be able to understand basic arithmetic concepts through engaging art activities.

Materials and Prep

• Blank paper or sketchbook
• Colored pencils or crayons
• Number flashcards (1-10)
• Pencil or marker

No prior knowledge or preparation is required.

Activities

1. Count and Draw

   Ask the toddler to count aloud from 1 to 10. As they say each number, they should draw the corresponding number of objects on the paper. Encourage them to be creative with their drawings.

2. Addition Art

   Show the toddler a number flashcard with a simple addition problem, such as 2 + 3. Ask them to draw the first number of objects (2) and then add the second number of objects (3) to the drawing. Help them count the total number of objects they have drawn.

3. Subtraction Sculpture

   Using playdough or modeling clay, have the toddler create a sculpture with a certain number of pieces (e.g., 6). Then, ask them to remove a specific number of pieces (e.g., 2). Help them count how many pieces are left in their sculpture.

Toddler Grade Talking Points

• "Numbers help us count things. We can draw and create art with numbers!"
• "When we count, we say numbers in order, like 1, 2, 3, 4, and so on."
• "We can add numbers together to find the total. For example, 2 + 3 equals 5."
• "Sometimes we need to take away or subtract some things. That means we have fewer things than before."
• "Let's use our playdough to make a sculpture. We can take away some pieces and see how many are left."