Counting is one of the first math skills kids start learning, and the Rock Stepper play mat can make this process a joyful adventure! By integrating colourful numbers, matching numicons, and flashcards, the mat transforms counting practice into a lively game. Designed to support kinesthetic learning (learning with movement), children can physically interact with numbers on the mat, helping them count from 1 to 10 with confidence and enjoyment.
Why Kinesthetic Learning Matters
Kinesthetic learning encourages children to move and engage physically with the material they’re learning. As children move around on the Rock Stepper play mat, they’re not only learning numbers but also building fine and gross motor skills. Research shows that physical activity helps young brains retain information more effectively.
Steps to Help Your Child Count to 10
The Rock Stepper play mat offers numbers from 0 to 10, with corresponding numicons (the dots below each number) that help children visualise and count quantities. Here’s a simple, fun approach to teaching counting:
1. Introduce Numbers with Flashcards
Use the number flashcards included in your Rock Stepper play mat set. Show a number card and ask your child to find the matching number on the mat. You can also flip the card to reveal the numicon pattern, which will help your child connect the number symbol with the actual count.
You can ask your child to place the card on the mat, ask them to repeat the number or count the numicons. You can start of with the cards in order, then reserve order and finally randomly.
2. Counting Steps on the Mat
Start a simple game by asking your child to step on each number tile, starting from 1 and moving up to 10. As they step on each number, encourage them to say the number out loud. This activity reinforces number recognition and counting order in a way that feels like play.
Your child can walk along the numbers or position themselves on the pebbles and ask them to step on the correct tile with their dominate foot.
3. Counting with Objects
For another counting activity, grab small toys or blocks. Ask your child to place the matching number of toys on the mat in the corresponding tile. 1 block on the number 1, 2 blocks on the number 2… . This tactile approach connects numbers with quantities and introduces the concept of “more” and “less.”
You could use Duplo block, wooden blocks, or anything that’s unform in size. Duplo blocks are great as you can then combine later on when teaching addition and subtraction.
4. Numicon Tracing for Visual Learning
The mat’s numicon tiles are a fantastic way to teach quantities visually. Encourage your child to trace the dots with their fingers while counting aloud. This activity combines counting with sensory input, enhancing number association.
The numicons are on the mat and on our flash cards, so you can use either. Its also later on great for learning odd and even numbers.
5. Speed counting games
Once your little stepper has mastered the art of counting to ten, its then time to make add little more competition and some energy into practicing. Turn counting practice into a playful game! For instance, say, “Let’s see how fast you can count to 10 and at the same time step on the numberd tiles” You can time them or ask them to count backwards while steping backwards on the tiles. Another idea to get the heart racing is to find objects around the room that match the numbers, e.g. find me 3 green things, find me something with two eyes. Your little one has to run of and find the item and place it back on the play mat.
6. Learn with music – Rockstepper Numbers song
Using music is a great way to learn, we have created a number of songs specfically for the Rock Stepper play mat, one is great for learning to count. You can listen to the songs on all major music streaming servers by searching for Rock Stepper or heading over to music page where there are links to our account.
We’ve created a special counting playlist which includes the Rock Stepper counting song along with some other songs to help your little one count.
Benefits of Counting on the Rock Stepper Play Mat
The Rock Stepper play mat supports counting practice through its thoughtfully designed features:
- Numicon Shapes: These visual cues help young children understand quantities and associate numbers with amounts.
- Safe and Soft Surface: With non-toxic, cushioned memory foam, the mat provides a soft, safe place for learning, ideal for active play and counting exercises.
- Screen-Free Learning: In today’s digital age, screen-free educational activities are highly beneficial. The Rock Stepper play mat allows children to learn actively without the use of devices.
Counting with Confidence!
The Rock Stepper play mat makes learning numbers an active, engaging process. Not only will your child have a fun space for counting games, but they’ll also develop foundational math skills that boost confidence and curiosity.
For more on how the Rock Stepper play mat encourages screen-free, kinesthetic learning, learn about our educational play mats here.