Mathematics is a crucial skill that every child needs to learn. It helps develop logical reasoning, problem-solving abilities, and analytical skills. However, learning math can be difficult. It’s a lot easier when you present it in a fun and engaging way to learn mathematical concepts.
Enter, the Missing Numbers experiment!
The Missing Numbers experiment is a simple and fun activity that involves writing the missing number in a sequence.
You will have a set of numbers in a sequence, but some of them will be missing. Your child’s task is to figure out what the missing number is and fill it in. This activity is an excellent way for kids to learn the basics of counting, number recognition, and sequencing.
How to make the Missing Numbers math experiment
Supplies you will need
For this experiment, you will need the following:
- Pen or marker
- Paper
- Optional: scissors
Before you start
If your child is not able to write yet, no worries! You can write out numbers on the paper, cut them out, and have your child choose from the pile of extra numbers to complete the sequence.
My daughter is still learning how to write. First, I had her identify the missing number by saying it, then we tried to write it. If she had problems, I would write out the number in dots (I’ll show that below) so she could follow the dots to write the number.
Instructions
Here is how to do the Missing Numbers experiment:
Step 1: Start with a simple sequence
To build their confidence, start with a very simple sequence. Think 1, 2, 3, _, 5 then have them write in the missing number.
If they are still learning how to write numbers, you can write the number in dots (after your child has identified the missing number!) and have them trace the dots.
Again, if they are not ready to try to write the number, you could write and cut out each number, create the sequence with the missing number, and have them choose from the leftover pile of numbers what fits into the sequence.
Step 2: Remove more numbers from the sequence
Next, we’re going to increase the difficulty!
Remove two numbers from the sequence and have them fill in the gaps. If it seems overwhelming, have them try to focus on one missing number at a time (ideally, the first missing number in the sequence).
Step 3: If they’re able, change the sequence to count by 10s
Many kids learn how to count by 10s as their first skip-counting exercise. If your child has learned another skip count (like by 5s), use that sequence instead!
The idea here is to bump up the difficulty by showing them something other than a simple 1-2-3 sequence.
The math behind the Missing Numbers math experiment
This experiment teaches:
- Counting and number recognition
- Sequencing and patterns
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
How it works
This simple activity packs a punch of knowledge! It’s an easy way to teach your child different math topics while making it a fun game.
Having your child fill in a sequence goes far beyond just numbers. It also serves as a hidden lesson in patterns and boosts their problem-solving skills.
Counting and number recognition
By filling in the missing numbers, kids are practicing their counting skills and learning to recognize numbers. As they become more comfortable with the activity, they can start to recognize patterns in number sequences, which is an important foundation for later math skills.
In this experiment, we also have unlimited opportunities to increase the difficulty for our children!
We start with a very basic sequence (1-2-3), but you are able to increase the difficulty as far as you need to in order to give your child a good mind stretch with this activity.
Sequencing and patterns
The Missing Numbers experiment also helps children learn about sequencing and patterns. They learn to identify the order in which numbers appear and to predict what number comes next in a sequence. This is an important skill for understanding more complex patterns in math and other subjects.
Problem-solving and critical thinking
The Missing Numbers experiment requires kids to use problem-solving and critical thinking skills to fill in the missing numbers. They must use logic and reasoning to determine what number belongs in the blank space. This helps them develop important cognitive skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.
Related math experiments to try out with your child
- Patterns with stickers: build fun patterns with a preschooler’s favorite (stickers!)
- Adding and subtracting with Unifix cubes: teach the basics of addition and subtraction with a fun visual
FAQ about the Missing Numbers math experiment
Why is the Missing Numbers experiment a good way to teach math skills to my child?
This experiment not only teaches your child how to recognize numbers and sequences, it also teaches your child about building patterns, and how to problem solve, and it builds their cognitive skills.
Related experiments
Number Recognition: A preschool activity to match numbers to quantity
Matching the number of objects to a number is a pretty important math concept for kids to learn. It's likely that your child knows their numbers, but this activity is all about associating their...
Mathematics is an essential subject that plays a critical role in our daily lives. At an early age, children are introduced to math concepts that lay the foundation for their future learning. One...