Subtraction Fun: Count and Subtract with Hands and Objects!
This worksheet introduces basic subtraction by having children count a starting group of objects and then 'take away' a smaller amount indicated by the minus sign, connecting the abstract concept of subtraction to something they can see and count. For four- to six-year-olds, visualizing subtraction as physically removing objects from a group — rather than just manipulating numbers — makes the concept concrete before they move to solving subtraction problems with numbers alone.
Part of the pack
Month 2: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6
This is page 13 of the pack. Ages 5-6 · KindergartenAges 5-6 · Year 1Ages 5-6 · UKGAges 5-6
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A maths pack with your child's name in it: pictures that explain, practice at three levels, puzzles and story sums about them. Print a new set whenever they finish.
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See all 7 personalised packsAbout this worksheet
- Topic:
- Subtraction
- Skill:
- Subtraction Basics (Subtraction): Subtract numbers within 20.
- Pack:
- Page 13 of 28 in Month 2: Learning & Development | Ages 5-6.
How to use this worksheet
Have your child count the total number of objects in the first group and say the number aloud. Point out the minus sign and the number next to it, explaining that this many objects need to be 'taken away.' Have them cross out or cover that many objects with a finger, then count how many are left. Have them write the remaining number in the answer box, and repeat for each subtraction problem on the page.
Materials needed
- Pencil
- Eraser
Extension activities
- 1Use real objects, like toys or snacks, to physically act out taking some away and counting what's left.
- 2Draw your own subtraction problems using simple pictures your child can cross out.
- 3Play a quick oral game: start with a number of claps and 'take away' a few, asking how many are left.
- 4Use a number line to hop backward the number of spaces being subtracted.
- 5Act out a simple story problem, like '5 birds on a branch, 2 fly away,' using your hands as birds.
Written by
Hemsweta Jain · Teacher Cheena
MBA and Early Childhood Educator, teaching since 2014 · Founder of RaisoActive, Mumbai
Every RaisoActive worksheet is designed and checked by the founder before publishing.
Published · Last reviewed
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