Set up:

To create your number board’s you have two options. You can either use word documents on your computer or you can draw your own using markers.

Computer version:

1. Using publisher or a word document, create a landscape document that has 4 rectangles to a page. Two at the top and two at the bottom fits perfect on A4 paper.
2. Inside each rectangle, add a number and the name of the number underneath. See photos for example. I used numbers 1 through to 12. But what numbers you use and how many is your choice. The more numbers you want, the more rectangles and pages you will need. Adding the number is optional, but does adds a literacy concept to the experience and allows children to start seeing the relationship between the two.

3. Now add the corresponding number of circles at the bottom of each rectangle. For example, the card that has the number 2 will have two circle dots underneath. Do this for each numbered card. This is where your child will attach their pegs.

Note: you can either use the shape button for this or use coloured circle stickers. If you are using the stickers you will add these after you’ve printed your pages.

4. Now print your pages, cut them out and laminate them for durability and wear. An optional step but recommended.

Drawn version:

1. Using an A4 piece of paper, fold your page in half like a book, and then fold the top down in half again. Open your page you should have 4 rectangles.
2. Inside each rectangle, write a number and the name of the number. Leave enough space to add your circles underneath.
3. Now draw the corresponding number of circles underneath or use coloured circle stickers.
4. Cut out your rectangles and laminate for durability. Optional, but recommended.

How to play:

1. Set up your number cards and a pile of pegs on a playing surface. A small table or on a rug is ideal.
2. Now encourage your child to choose a number card and attached the corresponding number of pegs to the card. For some children they will be able to read the number or word, for other children they may count the dots to work out how many pegs they will need.
3. Repeat the steps until all the cards are complete and then order the cards from smallest to largest, or challenge them from largest to smallest.

Extension ideas:

1. Add an extra learning element and try make your coloured circles the same colour as your pegs. Not only will your child need to attach the right number of pegs but match the colour also.
2. For an extra challenge, you could ask your child an equation or perhaps even design a worksheet with equations on them. The answer will be the card your child needs to find and add pegs too. For example 5-3, the answer is 2, your child would have to find the number 2 card and attach that many pegs.