Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to perform basic arithmetic operations using Baby Alive as a fun and engaging context.
Materials and Prep
- Baby Alive doll
- Counting objects (e.g., buttons, blocks, or small toys)
- Pen and paper
No specific prior knowledge is required for this lesson.
Activities
- Counting with Baby Alive: Ask your child to count the number of buttons or blocks you have. Let them feed Baby Alive with the same number of objects. Repeat this activity with different quantities.
- Addition with Baby Alive: Give Baby Alive a certain number of objects and ask your child to add more objects to her collection. Help them count the total number of objects. Repeat this activity with different initial quantities and add-ons.
- Subtraction with Baby Alive: Start with a certain number of objects in Baby Alive's collection. Ask your child to take away a specific number of objects. Help them count the remaining objects. Repeat this activity with different initial quantities and subtractions.
- Word Problems with Baby Alive: Create simple word problems related to Baby Alive, such as "Baby Alive has 3 blocks, and her friend gives her 2 more. How many blocks does she have now?" Encourage your child to use objects or draw pictures to solve the problems.
First Grade Talking Points
- "Mathematics is all about numbers and operations."
- "We can use our counting skills to feed Baby Alive with buttons or blocks."
- "When we want to find the total of two or more quantities, we use addition."
- "Subtraction helps us find out how many objects are left when we take some away."
- "Word problems are like little stories that we can solve using our math skills."