Inside: Classic Math Games for kids using Tic-Tac-Toe

Let’s bring back the classic game of Tic-Tac-Toe!

My rising Kindergartner loves strategy games.

He loves to think about his next move, and he also loves to win. – Which means he could use some practice losing. (hello, life skill!)

Tic-Tac-Toe is a great way to practice both!

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I’ll admit, my Kindergartener sometimes wins at this math game!

And this is not because I let him win. My Tic-Tac-Toe skills are a little rusty and could use some practice.

However, this is an excellent opportunity to connect with my rising Kindergartener.

I know two-year-olds get a bad rep, but being five is hard too.

Five-year-olds are at a place where they are being asked to be more responsible, and are required to live up to a demanding schedule. This new routine can be draining on all of us.

I need to remember to slow down and spend time with my five-year-old.

This classic game of Tic-Tac-Toe is the perfect way to reconnect!

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Why are classic math activities like this important?

Aside from learning how to win and lose, my Kindergartener is also learning how to take turns and think ahead.

My rising Kindergartener will revisit this in Kindergarten.

Children using the Common Core will work on following agreed-upon rules for discussions.

This classic game of Tic-Tac-Toe will create an opportunity to take turns based on the agreed-upon rules, and initiate conversation as players place game pieces on the board.

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This classic math activity is simple to make!

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I found cardboard squares in our garage. (Yet, another excuse that Amazon Prime is necessary.)

I wrote an X on five squares.

I wrote an O on five squares.

No cardboard? You can also use construction paper or cardstock!

Finally, I used my painter’s tape to create the grid on my tabletop.

My five-year-old and I must have played at least 25 games!

 

 

Tic-Tac-Toe is a great way to spend time with your big kid that needs a little one on one time.

Make it large, and watch the thinking and bonding explode.

In fact, I am off to set us up again for tomorrow!

When will you set up this KIndergarten math activity?