Candy cane math in pre-k

As I have mentioned before, I just love candy canes so we are always exploring candy canes through different content areas in my classroom for about a whole month!!

These are just little plastic candy cane ornaments you can get at the Dollar Store in bags. I gave each of my pre-k students a set of five candy canes (you can use real ones or make some for this activity) during our circle time. They used one of my DIY felt boards as a counting board for this activity…

Each of the children spread out their candy canes and counted them. Then I gave different kinds of instructions like, “If you take away one candy cane then how many will you have left?” The children would remove and count the remaining number of candy canes…

And once we got to zero then we began adding our candy canes.  I would say something like, “If you add one candy cane, how many do you have now?”

After we did a little adding and subtracting, then we used our candy canes to make designs on our boards. We discovered we can make a few letters…

And shapes…

And other fun designs…

Super simple math with a candy cane!


Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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