Gaining an understanding of these idea or concepts takes a lot exposure and repetition.
The song Ten In The Bed is a good example of this.
With each verse, kids singing the song must recalculate how many are left in the bed.
♫ There were 10 in the bed ♫
We never need to explain to them that this concept is called subtraction.
We never need to let them know that they are learning basic math.
Here are a few ideas for getting the most out of the song.
Kindergarteners and preschoolers LOVE this activity.
If you dont have ten children to play with, its no problem.
Just start from six (or however many children are playing), or use stuffed animals as substitutes.
Now two children will fall out, and everyone can count together how many are left in the bed.
Its great listening practice and will allow you to introduce the concept of subtracting numbers other than one.
Enjoy the song, and happy subtracting!
