Number Sense

Looking to expand your collection of subitising activities? Look no further than our Sunflower Seeds Subitising games and activities! Subitising, the ability to quickly recognize quantities without counting, is a crucial skill for young learners. However, teaching subitising effectively can sometimes be challenging.

In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of subitising, discuss common difficulties students face when learning this skill, and provide practical tips and resources to help you teach subitising with confidence.

Whether you’re a seasoned educator looking to refresh your lesson plans or a new teacher eager to dive into subitising instruction, our Sunflower Seeds Subitising collection has something for everyone. Let’s make subitising fun and engaging for all students!

Why is Subitising Important?

Subitising lays the foundation for number sense and mathematical fluency. By developing the ability to instantly recognize quantities, students can progress to more complex mathematical concepts with ease.

Teaching Subitising Effectively:

1. Start with Small Collections: Introduce students to subitising by focusing on small collections of objects, such as dice or dot patterns. Encourage them to recognise quantities without counting each object individually.
2. Practice Regularly: Incorporate subitising activities into daily routines to provide students with ample practice opportunities. Use a variety of materials and games to keep lessons engaging and interactive.
3. Foster Number Relationships: Help students understand the relationship between numbers by exploring different ways to represent quantities. Encourage them to compare and order groups of objects using subitising skills.

Difficulties Students May Encounter:

1. Over-Reliance on Counting: Some students may struggle to transition from counting each object to instantly recognizing quantities. Encourage them to trust their visual instincts and practice subitising regularly.
2. Difficulty Recognising Patterns: Recognising patterns and configurations of objects can be challenging for some students. Provide visual aids and hands-on activities to help them develop pattern recognition skills.
3. Limited Exposure to Subitising: Students who have not been exposed to subitising activities may find it difficult to grasp the concept. Start with simple activities and gradually increase complexity to scaffold their learning.
4. Lack of Confidence: Students may lack confidence in their subitising abilities, especially if they make mistakes or struggle to keep up with their peers. Provide positive reinforcement and create a supportive learning environment where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth.

Download our wide range of hands-on subitising games, printables, playdough mats, flashcards, and more to support your teaching efforts. Our resources are designed to make learning subitising fun and engaging for early childhood students.

With our comprehensive guide and sunflower seeds subitising resources, you’ll have everything you need to help your students master this important early math skill. Let’s make subitising a breeze!