A gingerbread counting mat makes a small quantity visible. Ask children to build the amount on the mat, check how many pieces they used, and compare their group with the printed numeral.
At a glance
Move one candy piece for each count, then stop and check the total.
1. Choose a small numeral
Start with a mat for 1, 2, or 3. Say the number and show it on a card.
2. Model moving the pieces
Move one candy cutout per number word. Keep the placed pieces separate from those waiting in the tray.
3. Build the target amount
Ask the child to place the pieces and stop at the printed number. Give a cue when needed.
4. Recount to check
Line up the pieces or point to each one. Ask how many are on the mat altogether.
5. Compare two mats
Look at a pair of completed mats. Ask which has more pieces and let children match them one to one.
A classroom example
In a fictional group, Min puts five candies on the mat for four. Her teacher asks her to move each as she counts. Min checks the total and takes one away.
Companion printable
The ten-page printable includes ten gingerbread mats numbered 1–10 and cutout candy pieces.
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