Math Thumbball

You’ll need to modify a beach ball(s) for this game.  

Using a permanent marker, divide the beach ball into more sections by drawing additional lines – as many as you need depending on the size of the ball. Label each section with a different number (1-10 OR 1-12). 

Check out the video!

On “GO” children pass the ball around the circle or in a pattern, bouncing around the circle until everyone gets a turn.  The child who catches the beach ball must state the problem indicated by the numbers under his/her THUMB (“6 plus 7” OR “6 times 7”).  The whole group provides the answer ( “13” OR “42”). 

There are countless variations as you modify the activity for different age groups.