Magnetic measurement for the win!
Sometimes the best invitations to play are the ones with the least amount of supplies. With magnetic measurement, we are using toys we already own.
We scoop up our magnetic tiles and set them up with a little mathematical twist. Measurement is an important skill that can be practiced now and have a HUGE impact on later. – bonus, it’s fun!
So grab those magnetic tiles, and let’s get started with this preschool measurement activity!
RELATED: Curious about where to start? Start here with our Startup Guide to Breakfast Invitations.
Why do we measure on the ground?
We have been doing Breakfast Invitations for over three years now. (How is that possible?!)
To keep children learning, we have to keep play prompts fresh.
Isn’t that true for us adults as well? Although I enjoy the same venti green tea at the coffee shop, I also enjoy visiting new coffee shop locations around the area—same drink, different view.
We need to think about how we can use a vertical surface, the floor, the tabletop, and most importantly, incorporate movement into the preschool activities we are implementing.
RELATED: This is the best list of activities for ages 5-7!
Why is measurement important?
For one, children learning under the Common Core Standards directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common to see which object has “more of”/”less of” the object and describe the difference.
Measurement is also the foundation of making comparisons.
Preschoolers can practice measurement by finding faster/slower, taller/shorter, bigger/smaller, lighter/heavier. This preschool measurement activity is focusing on length along with quantity.
The more we measure now, the more we can prepare our preschoolers for collecting data and finding relationships in comparisons down the road.
RELATED: Have Washi tape? We have measurement ideas for that!
Why is movement necessary?
According to the Center for Disease Control, childhood obesity is a severe problem in the United States, putting children and adolescents at risk for poor health. Obesity prevalence among children and adolescents is still too high.
Another reason we need to keep our kids active and stimulate learning is hands-on play and practice!
RELATED: Want to build a magnetic wall? I have all the details on how!
Setting up this measurement activity is simple!
First, place your painter’s tape at a variety of lengths.
Once your lines are placed, measure out your magnetic tiles to ensure you have enough. – Preschoolers can reuse magnetic tiles for each line if they do not have enough for all three or four lines at one time.
Finally, place a small piece of paper at each line’s end for your preschooler or you to write the total amount.
RELATED: Love magnetic tiles? You will also love our list of open-ended toys here.
Magnetic measurement supply list
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Note: I used the delicate painter’s tape for hardwood floors.
- Magnetic tiles – Picasso Tiles
- Magnetic tiles – Magna Tiles
- Painter’s tape – delicate is listed here.
When will you practice magnetic measurement with your preschooler?
