Objective
By the end of this lesson, the toddler will be able to understand basic arithmetic concepts through fun dinosaur-themed activities.
Materials and Prep
- Dinosaur toys or pictures
- Counting cards or number flashcards
- Construction paper
- Scissors
- Glue
- Markers or crayons
No prior knowledge or preparation is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Count the Dinosaurs: Show the toddler a set of dinosaur toys or pictures and ask them to count how many dinosaurs there are. Encourage them to touch each dinosaur as they count.
- Number Matching: Lay out a set of counting cards or number flashcards on a table. Have the toddler match each dinosaur toy or picture to the corresponding number card.
- Dinosaur Addition: Cut out dinosaur shapes from construction paper. Write different numbers on each dinosaur. Ask the toddler to choose two dinosaurs and add the numbers together by counting the total number of dots or using their fingers.
- Dinosaur Subtraction: Repeat the previous activity with different dinosaur shapes. This time, ask the toddler to choose two dinosaurs and subtract the smaller number from the larger number by crossing out the corresponding number of dots or using their fingers.
- Draw and Count: Give the toddler a blank piece of paper and ask them to draw their favorite dinosaur. Once they have finished drawing, have them count the number of legs, eyes, or any other specific features on their dinosaur.
Toddler Grade Talking Points
- "Look at all the dinosaurs! Let's count them together."
- "Can you find the dinosaur that matches this number?"
- "Let's add the numbers on these dinosaurs. How many dots or fingers do we need?"
- "Now let's subtract the smaller number from the bigger number. Can you cross out the dots or use your fingers to help?"
- "Wow, you drew an amazing dinosaur! Let's count the legs/eyes/other features on it."