Using non-standard units ( like lego blocks, your own feet, etc…) to introduce children to measurement is a fun and functional way of doing it.  They are comfortable with the items they are using to measure, and it’s a little less abstract than a standard unit like an inch or centimeter. They can see and manipulate these units and are familiar with them as well.  My son loved this and has been asking to measure his sister in Legos too.

1. Gather your materials. You will need some blocks ( we are using Lego Duplo blocks), a sheet of paper, marker, and items to measure.
2. Start by making a chart with 3 columns. Item , Prediction and Result.
3. Draw the items for children that can’t read independently yet, but also write the item name with the drawing.
4. Go item by item asking for a prediction before measuring.
5. Time to measure! Count how many Legos tall it is.
6. Write the result.
7. Keep going!!

Math Pretend Play

This simple elevator activity not only boosts number recognition it also uses your child’s imagination !