Math Train

Train Time

This is a getting started activity where children will begin counting as they build tracks and start exploring sequencing and order

30-45 min.
Beginner
PreK-K
Train-Time-1

Connect

Ask the children to help you describe a train.

Consider asking questions like:

  • What does a train look like?
    
  • What does a train sound like?
  • What does a train do?

Introduce the children to the Math Train set:

  • Show a track piece and ask the children to identify it.
  • Model putting two track pieces together.
  • Model putting two train cars together and placing them on the tracks.

Construct

  • Tell the children that they are going to help build tracks and a train.
  • Give each child a track piece and ask them to take turns connecting their pieces.
  • Encourage the children to count the pieces as they are connected.
  • Place one of the train cars on the track and place the number one brick on it.
  • Encourage the children to help you connect another train car and to tell you what number should be placed on it (i.e., two, three, etc.).
  • Continue adding as many cars as you would like, encouraging the children to identify the next number in the sequence.

Contemplate

Facilitate a discussion about the train and tracks you have just built.

Consider asking questions like:

  • How many track pieces did we use?
    
  • Is our train track long or short?
    
  • How many train cars did we use to make the train?
    

Continue

  • Tell the children that they need a train engine to go with the tracks and train cars.
  • Ask them to work in pairs to build a train engine. Show them the inspiration photo and encourage them to be as creative as they would like!
Train-Time-1
Train-Time-2

Did you notice?

Observing the following skills can help you monitor whether the children are developing the necessary competencies in math.

  • Counting using number names, and beginning to recognize the number of objects in a set
  • Sequencing numbers or events

Teacher Support

Children will:

  • Explore the components of the Math Train set
  • Begin counting as they buildtracks and a train
  • Begin to explore sequencing and order

For up to 4 children

The Mathematics guidelines from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and HeadStart have been used to develop the Math Train lessons. Please refer to the learning grid for an overview of the learning values referenced throughout this Teacher Guide.

The learning goals listed at the end of each lesson can be used to determine whether or not each child is developing the relevant early math skills. These bullet points target specific skills or pieces of information that are practiced or presented during each lesson.