Cheerios Counting Necklace
Level 1 builds foundational counting skills.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Summer Time
- Learning area: Mathematics
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence
- count to 10.
Instructions
Materials
- One box of O-shaped cereal.
- Pre-cut lengths of yarn or thick shoelaces.
- Masking tape for securing the ends of the yarn.
- Small plastic bowls for each child.
- A visual number card set (numbers 1 through 5).
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence by placing one cereal piece for each count.
- Verbally count a sequence of objects from one to five.
- Develop fine motor control by threading small objects onto a string.
- Recognise the relationship between a written numeral and a physical quantity.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Set up a workstation for each child with a bowl of cereal and a pre-cut string.
2. Wrap a small piece of masking tape around one end of each string to create a stiff tip for easier threading.
3. Tie a large knot at the opposite end of the string to prevent the cereal from sliding off.
4. Gather the children and show them how to pick up one piece of cereal at a time.
5. Model the process by slowly counting aloud as you thread three pieces onto your own string.
6. Ask each child to pick a number card from the set to determine how many pieces they will add to their necklace.
7. Circulate among the children to provide assistance with the threading motion.
8. Encourage children to count their cereal pieces aloud as they slide them onto the string.
9. Help the children tie the ends of their necklaces together once they reach their target number.
10. Allow the children to wear their necklaces or place them in a bag to take home.
Educator Tip
If a child struggles with the fine motor aspect of threading, use a thicker pipe cleaner instead of yarn. Pipe cleaners hold their shape and are much easier for three-year-olds to manipulate while they focus on the counting task.
Assessment
- Observe if the child touches each piece of cereal while counting.
- Record whether the child can stop counting once they reach the target number on their card.
- Note if the child successfully matches the quantity of cereal to the numeral shown on their card.
Assessment
Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Checklist: accurate counting, one-to-one touch.