I find it interesting that kids can go from scribbling all across the paper to — one day — coloring inside the lines. And enjoying it! My 4 1/2 year old recently discovered the joy of coloring, so I created this coloring page to use as a math game for kids.
I created the train with basic shapes and lines and programmed it with the numbers 10-20, because these are the numbers we are working at recognizing. Then I made a set of cards with the numbers 10-20 listed 2-3 times each.
I was all set to play it with him, but his older sister wanted to play.
The kids gathered their markers, and each sat down with a copy of the train. (Whoops — I forgot to put numbers in the some of the spaces, which you might notice in the pictures. I fixed it later.) The numbered cards lay between them.
Here’s how you play:
1) On your turn, draw a card.
2) Read the number on the card aloud.
3) Find that number on your train and color it.
4) If you have already colored that number, the other player may color it on his train if that space is still blank.
5) Whoever colors the entire train first, wins.
How is the game versatile? I have included a blank copy so that you can add whatever numbers you wish.
These are just three ways to change up the game:
1) On the cards, draw a certain number of dots. Have your child count the dots and color the matching number on the train.
2) Draw shapes on each card — find the matching shape on the train to color.
3) On each card, put a math problem. Color the answer on the train.
If you’re so inclined, you can create your own coloring race game sheets. Have fun!
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