Young children in preschool and kindergarten learn best by “doing”; touching and manipulating objects helps them move from concrete to abstract thinking which is necessary for later tasks such as reading and math calculations.
Learning Numbers
Providing your students with plenty of opportunities to touch and manipulate numbers and letters will help them retain the shape in their mind.
Items like magnetic letters and numbers are very helpful in aiding this process, but you can also make your own set of tactile learning cards using only 3 simple things you probably already have on hand!
How to Make Tactile Number Cards
To make a set of DIY number cards simply write the numbers on index cards using a permanent marker. Make one set of cards for each student.
It’s important to use a permanent marker when writing the numbers because the ink in non-permanent markers will run when you put glue on top.
Next, color your own liquid glue or use glitter glue which can typically be found at the dollar store.
To make your own colored glue just squeeze a few drops of food coloring in the top of a bottle of white liquid glue and stir with a craft stick.
Allow the glue bottle to sit for a few hours to let the colors mix.
Finally, have the students squeeze little dots of glue on top of each number. This is also great practice for fine motor skills.
When dry these make colorful, tactile number cards that students can run their fingers across to reinforce the shape of the numbers.
You can also send a set of number cards home so students can practice with their parents. These cards are great learning tools for tactile learners.
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