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45 Outdoor STEM Activities For Kids

Welcome to our list of amazing outdoor STEM activities to keep your kids busy outside! Get kids outdoors to enjoy the natural world while developing problem-solving, creativity, observation, engineering skills, and more. We love easy and doable STEM projects for kids!

outdoor problem solving activities

What Is Outdoor STEM?

These outdoor STEM activities can be used for home, school, or camp. Get kids outside and get kids interested in STEM! Take STEM outdoors, on the road, camping, or to the beach, wherever you go, but take it outside this year!

So you might ask, what does STEM stand for? STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Additionally, you might hear about STEAM , which includes an “A” for art!

We love STEM for kids because of its value and importance for the future. The world needs critical thinkers, doers, and problem solvers. STEM activities help kids better understand science, adapt to the latest technology, and engineer new solutions to solve problems of all sizes. Try our Real World STEM challenge !

Outdoor STEM is one of the best ways to get kids involved and keep them engaged. Below you will find nature STEM activities, outdoor science activities, and ideas for STEM camping activities. We even include some cool outdoor science experiments!

Helpful STEM Resources To Get You Started

Here are a few resources to help you introduce STEM more effectively to your kiddos or students and feel confident when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

  • Engineering Design Process Explained
  • What Is An Engineer
  • Engineering Words
  • Questions for Reflection (get them talking about it!)
  • BEST STEM Books for Kids
  • 14 Engineering Books for Kids
  • Jr. Engineer Challenge Calendar (Free)
  • Must Have STEM Supplies List

Click below to get your free printable STEM challenges!

You’ll find fantastic Nature STEM challenge cards that are meant to be done outdoors!

outdoor problem solving activities

Outdoor STEM Activities

These outdoor STEM activities provide new ways to incorporate favorite electronics, get dirty, look at nature differently, and explore and experiment. Don’t spend too much time sitting indoors when the weather is beautiful outdoors!

Click on the links below to learn more about each activity.

Outdoor Science Experiments

  • Love fizzing and exploding experiments? YES!! All you need are Mentos and coke .
  • Or here is another way to do it with diet coke and mentos .
  • Take this baking soda and vinegar volcano outdoors.
  • Bursting Bags is a great outdoor science experiment.
  • Simple outdoor science and a cool chemical reaction with an easy DIY Alka Seltzer rocket !
  • Explore surface tension while you blow geometric bubbles !
  • Try this color-changing slime outdoors and watch what happens!
  • Set up a leakproof bag science experiment .
  • Make a bottle rocket and blast off!
  • Blow bubble snakes and learn about surface tension.

outdoor problem solving activities

Nature STEM Activities

  • Build an insect hotel .
  • Make a cloud viewer and determine if the clouds you can see will bring rain.
  • Set up a bird feeder , grab a book, and identify the birds around your house or classroom.
  • Start a rock collection and learn about the rocks you find.
  • Build your own mason bee house for a few simple supplies and help the pollinators in the garden.

outdoor problem solving activities

Outdoor Engineering Projects

  • Explore physics through play with this homemade Toy Zip Line .
  • Design a homemade pulley system and learn about simple machines.
  • Make a paper helicopter and see if it flies.
  • Craft a paddle boat and watch it move!
  • Test the wind with a DIY Anemometer.
  • Make a wind vane .
  • Set up a DIY rain gauge .

outdoor problem solving activities

  • Develop those design and planning skills when you build a stick fort .
  • Build a solar oven and even try s’mores on it.
  • Design and build a water wall .
  • Explore forces as you fly a kite .
  • Alternatively, track the time with a DIY sundial .

outdoor problem solving activities

More Outdoor STEM Activities

Set up an outdoor STEM camp, explore nature-inspired STEAM, learn about the weather, or study plants.

  • Want to set up a STEM camp? Check out these summer science camp ideas !
  • Love science? Check out all our summer science experiments .
  • Find all our nature activities and plant activities .
  • Here’s our list of things to do outside for easy outdoor activities for kids.
  • Get creative with these outdoor art activities .
  • Design and craft a   DIY kaleidoscope for kids or try this spectroscope .
  • Record the moon’s phases for the month, or track the weather !

Printable Engineering Projects Pack

Get started with STEM and engineering projects today with this fantastic resource that includes all the information you need to complete more than 50 activities that encourage STEM skills!

outdoor problem solving activities

Do you have instructions for the Stem challenges please? Particularly catapults.

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outdoor problem solving activities

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~ projects to try now ~.

outdoor problem solving activities

Early Impact Learning

Outdoor Math Games – 50 Ideas That Really Work

Getting maths into the outdoors is one of the biggest concerns many practitioners have. It is probably the thing I am asked about the most where maths is concerned.

This post is by far the most comprehensive quantity of high-quality outdoor math activities for children aged 3 to 6 that you will be able to find all in one place.

Why do maths outside?

The benefits of maths outdoors are many, which include:

  • You can do things on a bigger scale
  • Maths can become really active and physical
  • You can use a wider range of found objects
  • You have the space for large games
  • Some children prefer being outdoors and will access maths opportunities more freely than indoors

Outdoors offer both an opportunity to learn new things, as well as practice basic math concepts they already understand with bigger and more active resources.

Here we go – let’s get stuck into some of the best and tried and tested outdoor math activities that will get your children loving maths outside.

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Table of Contents

Number Stones

I have created quite an array of different types of number stones. These are actually great for use either inside or out. Lots of the math games I will demonstrate below can be played with these, although you can use many other things such as sticks, leaves, or conkers.

I just bought lots of white pebbles from a hardware shop and some acrylic paint.

If you’re looking to buy similar pebbles, something on Amazon like this will work.

For acrylic paint, some bog-standard primary colors like these will do the job.

I painted the stones with acrylic paint in different ways, and sometimes used a Sharpie pen if I needed to put an outline on them.

The number stones I have created include:

Sets of 1-10 Stones

These are alternately colored, yellow, white, yellow, white, to begin the idea of odd and even in a visual way. Great for ordering or using to label.

outdoor problem solving activities

If you don’t want to create your own stones, you can also buy beautiful number stones, thus saving you time. Yellow Door painted number stones are a good choice (check out the latest price on Amazon here.)

Matching Numeral To Quantity Stones

Have some stones with numbers on, and some with quantities. It could be dots, or it could be something like insects.

outdoor problem solving activities

These are brilliant for one to one correspondence in particular. If you want to find out what one to one correspondence is, and the best ways to teach it, then check this out.

Animal Stones

I have some ladybird stones, some leopard ones, as well as some zebra and bee stones. Any animal that has a multi-colored pattern can be copied. These stones are great for games.

2s, 5s And 10s Stones

Great for higher-ability children in the early years, and for challenging younger kids who are starting to count in different ways.

These are perfect for ordering numbers in a range of ways.

Outdoor Models and Images

Mathematicians think in pictures.

Models and images seem to work really well outside because you can make them big, and they can be the focus of active games.

The benefits of using models and images include:

  • They present maths as pictures
  • They are visual
  • They allow for problem-solving
  • They allow for the manipulation of physical objects
  • They can be used again and again, often in different ways

Chalkboard Paint

A lot of the resources that I have created are using black chalkboard paint . This is one of the ultimate resources in the early years. It is great for painting large surfaces for mark-making, such as fences, sheds, pallets, or old furniture.

I imagine any can of chalkboard paint would work, but I use American Crafts DIY Chalkboard Paint (check out the current price on Amazon) . It does the job great.

I have painted several pieces of MDF from a hardware shop and then used these for games. However, you could just as easily chalk the games on the floor. I also once painted tree stumps with lots of games using acrylic paint. They lasted for at least a year, even out in the rain.

Addition Triangles

These are great for exploring number bonds. They represent the part-part-whole model used in Singapore Maths.

I have painted my addition triangles onto a piece of MDF. Using the animal stones (or another resource such as leaves and sticks), you can explore number bonds.

For example, start with five stones in the top circle. Split them up into different quantities, and put the stones in the two lower circles. For example, it could be 1+4, or 2+3.

outdoor problem solving activities

Higher-ability children could try to record what they have found.

2 Sets For Addition

This math game is another good one when children are beginning to add. You can use painted stones, or just found objects from the area.

Place some objects in either circle and then simply count how many you have got altogether. This is an excellent way of adding two sets and finding the total.

Trellis Models And Images

One of the best things I ever tried was sawing up a big trellis that I found at a garden center. I am pretty sure I saw this on Pinterest but cannot remember where. I cut it up into many different models, such as:

  • A ten frame
  • A five frame
  • A two-part addition frame
  • A four-part frame

There are so many games that you can play using these. Children really love finding objects to experiment with in the frames.

Ten frames are a key resource to introduce to young children both inside and out . To find out more about what ten frames are and the many ways to use them, take a look at this .

outdoor problem solving activities

Board Games Outside

Board games are fantastic for a range of mathematical skills. They encourage:

  • Counting for a purpose
  • Recognizing numbers
  • Problem-solving
  • Find more/less

Some examples of fantastic outdoor board games include:

Noughts And Crosses

This seems to be known more by the modern generation as tic tac toe.

It is a brilliant game for problem-solving and simple counting, as well as turn-taking. You can easily create simple boards on wood or logs, and use painted stones or objects such as pine cones and conkers.

outdoor problem solving activities

I have recently seen a board made out of rope.

It is good for simple counting, doing mental math and subitizing, as well as thinking ahead.

Connect Four

Another classic game from the old days.

If you play this game on the floor it is actually easier to get four in a row than if you play the standard plastic version.

Create a large grid board, and then use different objects for each player. It could be stones vs. conkers. Put one on at a time, and try to get four in a row. You can actually have more than 2 players if you want as well. Great for counting, subitizing numbers, tactics and problem solving.

Racetrack 1-6 Game

Have a dice with numerals on it and a board that is a simple grid, with numerals 1 to 6, and some other boxes. Pick which number you think will win, and put your colored stone at the top of the grid for that number. Then roll the dice multiple times. Every time you roll it, put a stone on the right numeral on the grid. The first number is the number that fills up its grid.

outdoor problem solving activities

This is a fantastic activity for number recognition. If you want to find out my favorite 16 games to teach recognizing numerals, then take a look at this article.

Racetrack 1-12 Game

This is quite a bit harder, and has a lot of probability and calculating involved. But this game makes math problems and math equations more enjoyable to solve.

Have a racetrack that is a 12 x 4 grid. Have the numbers 1-12 written on the bottom of the grid.

You will need two dice, ideally a dots dice and a numeral dice.

To start with every player predicts which number they think will win. They use something such as a colored stone to signify this by putting the stone at the top of the grid in the number column.

Then you take turns to roll a dice. For example, you might get 3+4. Put a stone on the first box in the 7 column. Keep going, adding stones to the number columns. The ‘winner’ is the first number to come out 3 times and make it to the top of the grid.

This game is excellent for multiple things:

  • Calculating
  • Counting on
  • Probability – Numbers 6 and 7 are the two most likely to win. They have the most combinations of numbers possible. Number 1 can never win as you can never throw a 1 with two dice. Children may start to get a bit of an idea of this when they play.
  • Thinking about ‘more’. I.e. how many more a number needs to win.

Number Line Race

This is a great way of exploring a number line.

Have a long number line either chalked on the floor (or painted on a piece of wood). Each child has one ‘counter’ such as a colored stone.

The idea is that everyone starts at the beginning of the line. The first child rolls a 1-6 dice. They move their stone along the line to that point (e.g. 5). Then the other children go. For the next go, you simply keep moving along the number line. The winner is the person that gets to the end first.

outdoor problem solving activities

This is good for number recognition, and also problem solving (such as how far your opponent is ahead of you)

Blank Number Line Race

I also have a number line that has blank spaces on it. Children can add their own numbers to it.

They could be 1, 2, 3, etc., or they could mix it up. They could go backwards. Or they could start from a number that’s not 1. You could also do a game counting in tens.

Active Outdoor Math Games

Here are some physical outdoor games that can get children really engaged.

Stepping Stones

This is an excellent game of cooperation and teamwork.

I use rubber spots for this game with numbers on them. You can find similar spots to these at Amazon here.

You need one more spot than you have children, so if you have a team of six children you will need 7 spots (with numbers 1 to 7 on).

outdoor problem solving activities

The children are in a line. The child at the front has all the spots (they have a hard job). The person at the back of the line actually has the hardest job, as they have to bend down and pick the spots up.

The idea is that the floor is now lava. You cannot stand on it. However, you can stand on the spots that are the stepping stones over the lava.

The child at the front finds number 1 and puts it on the floor. They stand on it. Then they put down number 2 in front of them, and step on that. Then number 3 etc. As there is a free stepping stone behind them, the others start to step onto the stones.

When number 7 is on the floor, the children should be standing on stones 2 to 7. Then it is the turn of the person at the back to pick up stone number 1 and pass it down the line.

They help each other to pass it down and the process starts again. The person at the back keeps on bending down and picking up the spare stepping stone.

I like to get them to say the number as they stand on it. This game is good for number recognition and ordering.

Using water spray-bottles

This is dead easy. Have water spray bottles and a dice. (A spray bottle lo oks a bit like this if you weren’t sure!)

Roll the dice and spray the bottle that number of times. It could be on the fence or on wallpaper. If you are brave you add a bit of paint to the water in the bottles.

Sticks Activities

There are so many learning opportunities can you perform with sticks including:

  • Making 2D shapes.
  • Ordering through size
  • Making pictures – such as houses, vehicles, rockets, etc.
  • Counting them
  • Making ten-frames, or number lines

Balloon Games

Balloons are great for physical development, cooperation, and turn taking. Some great outdoor maths games with balloons include:

  • Have a small group of children in a circle (approximately 4 to 6 children). Write numbers on a balloon in pen. Maybe put about 6 numbers on the balloon. One child hits the balloon up into the air, then another hits it up and continues. When you hit the balloon, say the number that you hit.
  • Have lots of balloons, each with one number on them. Start with one balloon, keep it up, and when you hit it say the number. Then add another balloon to the circle, then another. Keep saying the number as you hit each balloon.
  • Have one balloon again (this time with no numbers written on it). The first person says ‘One’ as they hit the balloon. Then the next person says, ‘two’. Continue like this.
  • The harder version is counting back from 10 to 0. The first person hits the balloon and says ‘ten’. Then the next person says ‘nine’ as they hit it, and so on.

outdoor problem solving activities

Maths Ball Games

All sorts of counting and number activities can really be brought to life with ball games . Here are some great examples:

Have Bibs With Numbers

This is one of the most fun outdoor math activities on this list!

Have shirts or bibs with numbers on that the children wear. The child-size version of these number sports vests would work well, as an example.

If you don’t have anything like this, you can write numbers on stickers and they stick them on their tops.

Stand in a circle.

The first child says a number that someone else is wearing and throws the ball to them. That person says ‘thank you’. Then that person chooses someone else, says their number and throws it to them.

This game can be done as a rolling game if they are struggling with catching.

Great for numeral recognition in a fun context. 

Write Numbers On The Balls

Either put stickers with numbers on onto balls, or write directly onto them if you don’t mind having permanent number balls. We use large rubber balls that look a bit like this (check them out on Amazon).

Again this could be a rolling game or a throwing game, depending on the skills of the children.

Start with one ball, but you want to quickly extend it to at least two and hopefully more.

One child says someone’s name and throws a ball to them. That child catches it and says the number.

Then they say someone else’s name and throw it to them. Repeat.

If you have two or three balls going at once there is lots of communication and teamwork required.

Pass The Number Balls Around The Circle

Using the same balls that you created for the last game, play a simple numeral recognition game.

The children sit in a circle and pass the balls around. When they are holding a ball they say the number that is written on it, before passing the ball to the next person.

This game is good because even if you don’t recognize all the numbers, you can listen to the person next to you and copy what they have said. Hopefully, in this way, you are absorbing what the numbers are in some way.

For those who know the numbers already, it is great for speed and quick recognition practice.

Symmetry – Building Half A Giant Outside

This is a great provocation for using outdoors with natural loose parts – things like sticks, leaves, conkers, reels, and building blocks. Just whatever you can find in the outdoor space. To find out the many resources you can use for loose parts play, take a look at this list of at least 100 ideas .

There is a simple way to do it, and a trickier way.

The simple way is for the adult to draw the silhouette of a huge giant on the floor with chalk. Draw a central line down the center of the body, from the top of the head down to the feet.

Now children ‘build’ the giant. Whatever they place on one side – for example, 4 conkers for hair – they try to copy on the other side.

There are harder ways of trying this game out. One harder variation is just draw a central line on the floor with chalk and nothing else. Then, once again, they try to build the giant on one side, and copy it on the other. This will create a much more random creation, and really get them thinking

Washing Lines

There are so many things you can do with washing lines , and it really is so simple to set up. Pretty much all you need is a piece of string.

You can put the string:

  • Between two fences
  • Between two walls
  • I know several teachers who have put wooden broomsticks into pots and then filled the pot with concrete so that the brooms stand up. These are great for creating a washing line between two brooms

If you put a washing line up outside, the big thing to be careful of is that children do not run into it by mistake. The big threat is things like neck injuries.

Some ways to combat this include:

  • Having the string next to a wall or fence
  • Have it above their head height, maybe with a platform for them to stand on to peg things on to it
  • Have it in an area where running is not possible

Anyway, here are some fantastic outdoor washing line activities:

  • Hanging up the giant’s clothes. The trick is to bring some large adult clothes in, and you will be amazed at how the children are convinced they are giant clothes. Hang them next to baby clothes, and talk about the differences in size
  • Hanging up pairs of socks
  • Finding objects outside, such as sticks and leaves and pegging them up. You can peg found objects up in patterns, or you can add or subtract from them. For example, you could have three red leaves and add two brown leaves. How many have you got altogether?
  • Ordering numbers. Ideally use something natural, like pegs with numbers on them or wood slices with numbers on them.

outdoor problem solving activities

Parachute Games

Parachutes are another fantastic resource that can be used either adult-led outside or can be used independently if you model the games and how to use them to the children.

The parachute that I use looks like this:

outdoor problem solving activities

These are really resilient and can create years of fun and learning. (Check out the latest price of this parachute on Amazon).

Here are some excellent maths parachute games:

  • Number dive. Have some numbers underneath the parachute. Have several children holding the parachute. Pick a child to go first, and say ‘1,2,3 – lift!’ Everyone lifts the parachute high into the air. Then shout a number. That child dives under the parachute, grabs the number, and brings it out to safety. Repeat for other children. If the children are doing it by themselves, then the child that has just gone picks the person to go next, and also what number they will get.
  • Shape Dive! This is the same as number dive but with shapes.
  • Singing counting songs . This works really well if you have some toys to go with it. For example, five monkey toys so you can sing 5 Cheeky Monkeys Jumping On The Bed. Great for singing the song, and taking off one monkey at a time. (Check out these gorgeous monkey finger puppets you could use for this activity here.)
  • Bean bag bounce. This is an excellent number bonds game. Have ten bean-bags on the parachute. You have a few seconds where everyone tries to bounce the bean-bags off the parachute. Count back by going 5-4-3-2-1-0. When you get to zero, see now many bean bags are left on the parachute. You will always have a number bond. If there are two on the chute, then there will be three on the ground. If there are four on the chute, there will be six on the ground.
  • Hit The Number! Have some rubber numbers (or something similar) and balance them on top of the parachute as everyone holds it together. Have a rubber ball for this game as well. The adult says a number, and everyone tries to roll the ball onto that number. This is a game of cooperation as well as number recognition. You can potentially make it harder by saying things like ‘one more than three’ (and trying to roll the ball onto number four).

Outdoor Games Top-Tips

  • Make everything big!
  • Make it active
  • Use lots of models and images for games
  • Use found objects like stones, sticks and leaves
  • Use balls, and floor games, and things like balloons

Outdoor math games have loads of fantastic benefits.

It makes maths fun!

It consolidates prior learning in an active and concrete way.

It helps children to link maths learning to the real world.

It is also extremely cheap and quite simple to set up. Pretty much all of these outdoor math activities use resources that are easy to source, and cost next to nothing or are free.

So why not give outdoor math games a go today?

If you are reading this and are based in the UK, then you may well be interested in my Practical Early Years Maths Training Courses that I run around the UK. Check them out to find a venue near you. All sessions are hands-on, practical, and based on numerous ideas to help you find success in teaching maths.

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OhMyClassroom.com

23 Exciting Outdoor Math Games for Kids

Are you ready to take math learning beyond the confines of the classroom?

Get ready to step outside and engage in fun outdoor math games that will make learning numbers, operations, and problem-solving an interactive and enjoyable experience.

These games offer a refreshing break from traditional classroom methods, allowing students to explore mathematical concepts in a hands-on and dynamic way.

Whether you’re a teacher looking to spice up your lessons or a parent seeking engaging activities for your children, these outdoor math games are sure to captivate learners of all ages while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematics.

So, put on your thinking caps, lace up your shoes, and let’s embark on an adventure of mathematical discovery in the great outdoors!

“Math Scavenger Hunt”:

20 Exciting Outdoor Math Games

Embark on an exciting math-filled adventure with a scavenger hunt that combines problem-solving skills and outdoor exploration. Create a list of math-related items or clues that participants must find and solve. For example, you could hide objects with numbers or mathematical symbols in various locations around the outdoor area. Participants can use their problem-solving abilities to decipher clues, calculate distances, and apply mathematical concepts to uncover hidden treasures. This activity not only reinforces math skills but also encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and active engagement with the environment.

“Fraction Frisbee Toss”:

outdoor problem solving activities

Combine physical activity and fraction learning with a lively game of “Fraction Frisbee Toss.” Set up different fraction targets on the ground using hula hoops, colored markers, or any other visible markers. Assign each target a specific fraction value. Participants take turns throwing a frisbee and aim to land it within the designated fraction target. After each throw, players discuss and calculate the fraction of successful landings. This game helps reinforce understanding of fractions, encourages estimation skills, and enhances hand-eye coordination in an enjoyable outdoor setting.

Related: Free Lesson Plan Ideas for Preschool (Printable PDFs)

“Math Relay Race”:

outdoor problem solving activities

Turn math into a thrilling relay race where teams compete against each other to solve mathematical challenges. Divide participants into teams and set up multiple stations with different math problems at each one. The teams race from one station to another, solving the problems and collecting points along the way. The challenges can range from basic arithmetic to more complex equations, catering to different skill levels. This fast-paced game promotes quick thinking, collaboration, and healthy competition while reinforcing math skills in a dynamic outdoor environment.

Related: 20 Creative Olympic Games Activities for Students

“Shape Scavenger”:

Take geometry outside with a “Shape Scavenger” activity. Give participants a list of various shapes, such as squares, circles, triangles, or rectangles, and challenge them to find real-world examples of each shape in the outdoor surroundings. Participants can search for objects like signs, leaves, rocks, or playground equipment that match the specified shapes. Encourage them to describe and discuss the properties of each shape they find, promoting observational skills and reinforcing geometric concepts. This hands-on activity allows learners to connect mathematical concepts to their everyday environment. Source: mathgeekmama.com

“Measurement Olympics”:

Transform measurement practice into an exciting outdoor event with a “Measurement Olympics.” Set up different measurement stations around the outdoor area, such as long jump, javelin throw, or shot put, and assign each station a specific measurement skill, such as distance, weight, or height. Participants take turns participating in each event, measuring and recording their results using appropriate units. They can compare their measurements, analyze data, and discuss the concepts of precision and accuracy. This game not only reinforces measurement skills but also promotes physical fitness and friendly competition. Source: thekindergartensmorgasboardstore.com

“Math Nature Walk”:

Combine the beauty of nature with mathematical exploration in a “Math Nature Walk.” Take a group of learners on a guided walk through a park or nature reserve. Along the way, encourage them to observe and document mathematical elements they encounter, such as counting the petals on a flower, measuring the height of a tree, estimating the length of a path, or identifying geometric shapes in natural formations. This activity promotes observation skills, measurement, and mathematical thinking while fostering a connection with the natural world. Source: mothernatured.com

“Math Olympics Relay”:

Organize a Math Olympics Relay where teams compete in a series of math-based challenges. Set up stations with different math tasks that require teamwork, problem-solving, and quick thinking. For example, participants might solve math puzzles, complete number sequences, or calculate sums and products. Each team member takes turns racing to a station, solving the problem, and passing the baton to the next team member. This game builds mathematical fluency, enhances strategic thinking, and adds an element of excitement to outdoor learning. Source: fun365.orientaltrading.com

“Number Line Hopscotch”:

Reinforce number sense and basic arithmetic skills with a creative twist on the classic hopscotch game. Draw a number line on the ground using chalk or tape, and assign each square a specific number. Participants take turns hopping along the number line, either adding or subtracting the numbers they land on. For instance, if they start at 10 and hop forward two squares, they would add 2 to 10, landing on 12. This game enhances mental math abilities, number recognition, and physical coordination while enjoying the outdoors. Source: dreme.stanford.edu

“Math Art Gallery”:

Turn mathematical concepts into art by organizing a “Math Art Gallery” outdoors. Provide participants with various art supplies and materials, such as paint, brushes, construction paper, or natural objects like leaves and stones. Assign each participant or group a specific mathematical concept, such as symmetry, patterns, or geometric shapes, and challenge them to create artwork that reflects the assigned concept. Once completed, display the artwork in an outdoor gallery and encourage participants to discuss the mathematical elements in each piece. This activity combines artistic expression with mathematical visualization and promotes creativity. Source: astemfulmind.com

“Math Relay Obstacle Course”:

Combine math skills and physical challenges in a thrilling “Math Relay Obstacle Course.” Set up an obstacle course with different stations, each representing a math task or problem. For example, participants might solve equations, identify geometric shapes, or answer math riddles before moving on to the next station. The team that completes the course in the fastest time with the most accurate answers wins. This game enhances math fluency, problem-solving under pressure, and physical fitness while adding an element of fun and competition to outdoor learning. Source: earlymathcounts.org

“Math Relay Water Balloon Toss”:

Combine math and water fun with a “Math Relay Water Balloon Toss.” Divide participants into teams and set up a relay course. At each station, teams must solve a math problem before they can proceed. Once the problem is solved, they toss a water balloon to the next teammate. The team that completes the relay course with the fewest dropped water balloons wins. This game encourages quick thinking, math fluency, and coordination while providing a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors. Source: iknowit.com

“Geometry Scavenger Hunt”:

Turn geometry into an adventure with a “Geometry Scavenger Hunt.” Create a list of geometric shapes and properties, such as triangles, circles, parallel lines, or right angles. Participants explore the outdoor area to find objects that match each description on the list. For example, they might find a triangular roof, a circular flower, or parallel fence posts. This activity promotes geometry skills, observation, and critical thinking while connecting mathematical concepts to the real world. Source: teachingexpertise.com

“Math Simon Says”:

Put a mathematical twist on the classic game of Simon Says. Designate one person as the “Math Simon” who gives commands related to math operations, shapes, or numbers. For example, they might say, “Simon says, touch your head if the answer to 3 + 5 is 8.” Participants must listen carefully and perform the action if “Simon says.” If they perform the action without “Simon says,” they are out. This game reinforces math skills, and listening comprehension, and enhances physical movement in an outdoor setting. Source: familymath.stanford.edu

“Estimation Jar”:

Set up an “Estimation Jar” activity where participants practice their estimation skills. Fill a transparent jar with a specific quantity of objects, such as marbles, buttons, or shells. Participants examine the jar and make an estimation of the number of items inside. Each person writes down their estimate, and then the jar is opened and counted. The participant with the closest estimate wins. This game promotes estimation abilities, number sense, and critical thinking while enjoying the outdoor environment. Source: mamapapabubba.com

“Math Pictionary”:

Combine art and math in an outdoor game of “Math Pictionary.” Divide participants into pairs or small groups. Each group is given a math concept, such as multiplication, fractions, or geometry. Using chalk or markers, they take turns drawing representations of that concept on the ground or a large piece of paper. The other groups then try to guess the math concept being illustrated. This game encourages creativity, mathematical visualization, and collaborative learning in an outdoor setting. Source: thegamegal.com

“Math Relay Measurement Challenge”:

Create a “Math Relay Measurement Challenge” where participants compete in various measurement tasks. Set up different stations that require measuring length, weight, capacity, or time. For example, participants might measure the length of a jump, estimate the weight of an object, or time how long it takes to complete a specific activity. Each participant completes their measurement task and records the results before passing the baton to the next teammate. This game reinforces measurement skills, estimation, and teamwork while adding a competitive element to outdoor learning. Source: mrsstrawberry.com

“Math Nature Photography”:

Combine math and photography in a “Math Nature Photography” activity. Provide participants with cameras or smartphones and encourage them to explore the outdoor environment, capturing images that showcase mathematical concepts. For instance, they might photograph patterns in nature, symmetry in leaves or flowers, or geometric shapes in architecture. Afterward, participants can share and discuss their photographs, identifying and describing the mathematical elements present in each image. This activity promotes observation skills, mathematical visualization, and artistic expression in a natural setting. Source: natureexplore.org

“Math Olympics Obstacle Course”:

Organize a “Math Olympics Obstacle Course” where participants engage in math-related challenges while navigating through an obstacle course. Set up various obstacles that represent different math tasks or problems. Participants must solve each problem before moving on to the next obstacle. For example, they might solve equations, calculate areas, or identify number patterns. This game combines physical activity, problem-solving, and math skills while providing an exciting and energetic outdoor experience. Source: earlymathcounts.org

“Math Bingo Scavenger Hunt”:

Create a unique twist on the traditional game of Bingo with a “Math Bingo Scavenger Hunt.” Prepare Bingo cards with math-related items or clues, such as shapes, numbers, or operations. Participants explore the outdoor area and search for objects that match the items on their Bingo cards. Once they find a matching object, they mark it off on their card. The first participant to complete a line or a full Bingo wins. This game reinforces math vocabulary, observation skills, and critical thinking while enjoying the thrill of a scavenger hunt. Source: pbslearningmedia.org

“Math Chalk Obstacle Course”:

Use chalk to create a dynamic “Math Chalk Obstacle Course” on a paved outdoor surface. Draw various math challenges, such as equations, number sequences, or word problems, along with corresponding symbols or answers. Participants navigate through the course, solving each math challenge as they progress. For example, they might hop on the correct answer or perform a specific action based on the solution. This game combines physical movement, problem-solving, and math skills while embracing the colorful and interactive nature of chalk art. Source: frugalfun4boys.com

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Sohaib Hasan Shah

Sohaib's journey includes 10+ years of teaching and counseling experience at BCSS School in elementary and middle schools, coupled with a BBA (Hons) with a minor in Educational Psychology from Curtin University (Australia) . In his free time, he cherishes quality moments with his family, reveling in the joys and challenges of parenthood. His three daughters have not only enriched his personal life but also deepened his understanding of the importance of effective education and communication, spurring him to make a meaningful impact in the world of education.

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14 Best Outdoor Math Activities That Make Learning Fun

Numbers on rocks

1. Nature’s Numbers Hunt

2. sidewalk chalk math, 3. garden measurement, 4. outdoor math bingo, 5. shape hunt, 6. water balloon math toss, 7. math relay races, 8. time-telling with sundials, 9. nature patterns and sequences, 10. math treasure hunt.

Mathematics , a subject crucial for cognitive development, can sometimes be challenging and less appealing to young minds. However, it transforms when taken outside amidst the playfulness of nature and the freedom of open spaces. Outdoor math activities break the monotony of traditional learning methods , making math both engaging and enjoyable . They provide a hands-on experience where children can connect mathematical concepts to the real world.

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This blog delves into fun and creative outdoor math activities. Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, these activities are simple to organize and rich in learning outcomes. 

Rainy day? No problem! Keep your kids learning math with SplashLearn indoors. Explore interactive indoor math adventures and make the most of any weather.

Nature hunt and counting objects

Nature’s Numbers Hunt is one of the best outdoor math activities that combines the thrill of a scavenger hunt with the foundational skill of counting. In this activity, children are given a list of natural items to find in specific quantities, such as 5 pine cones or 3 red leaves. As they explore and collect, they practice counting and number recognition , turning a simple walk in the park into a fun math adventure.

Age group: 3-6 

Learning Focus: Counting , number recognition.

Kid drawing a sidewalk chalk math art

Sidewalk Chalk Math brings creativity to outdoor math activities. With just a box of chalk, any pavement becomes a canvas for learning. Draw hopscotch grids with equations or create large number lines for kids to jump along. This activity makes math visually stimulating and physically engaging as children hop, skip, and jump their way through basic arithmetic and number sequences.

Age group: 4-8

Learning Focus: Basic arithmetic, number sequences.

A kid measuring in the garden

Garden Measurement is a hands-on approach among math outdoor activities , where kids engage directly with nature. They can measure the growth of plants, the length of garden beds, or even the amount of rainfall in a container. This activity teaches them how to measure and understand different units and instills a sense of responsibility and connection with the environment.

Age group: 5-10

Learning Focus: Measurement, understanding units .

Math bingo card

Outdoor Math Bingo is a versatile addition to math activity to play outside. Create bingo cards with various math challenges that kids can solve outdoors. These challenges could range from simple arithmetic to finding shapes or counting objects. As children explore their surroundings to complete their bingo cards, they engage with various math concepts in a playful and dynamic way.

Age group: 6-12

Learning Focus: Diverse math concepts depending on the challenges.

Shape hunt written in colorful background

Shape Hunt is an excellent way to introduce geometry through math activities outside. In this activity, children are encouraged to find and identify different shapes in their environment. This could be the circular shape of a tire swing, the rectangular outline of a park bench, or the triangular form of a tree’s leaves. It’s a fun way to develop shape-recognition skills and an understanding of basic geometric principles.

Age group: 3-6

Learning Focus: Geometry, shape recognition.

Balloons with time written on it

The Water Balloon Math Toss combines the excitement of a water game with the arithmetic challenge. In this activity, children solve math problems to earn the chance to toss a water balloon. This makes practicing math fun and adds a sense of reward and motivation to the learning process, making it a favorite among outside math activities.

Learning Focus: Arithmetic, reward-based learning.

Vector poster of math relay race

Math Relay Races bring a competitive edge to learning. Set up relay races where each leg of the race involves solving a math problem. This could include puzzles , mental arithmetic, or logical challenges. It’s a great way to encourage speed and accuracy in problem-solving while fostering teamwork and healthy competition among participants.

Age group: 7-13

Learning Focus: Speed and accuracy in solving problems, teamwork.

A DIY sundial

Teach kids about time-telling by creating a simple sundial. Place a stick (gnomon) in the ground, and as the sun moves, the shadow will indicate the time. This activity teaches time concepts and introduces the idea of angles and the Earth’s rotation.

Age group: 6-10

Learning Focus: Time-telling, understanding angles

Nature patterns

Nature Patterns and Sequences are a cornerstone of fun outdoor math activities. This activity involves creating or identifying patterns and sequences using natural items, such as leaves, stones, or flowers. It encourages children to observe the natural world closely and apply algebraic thinking to recognize and form patterns and sequences.

Learning Focus: Patterns, sequencing, algebraic thinking.

A math treasure hunt map

The Math Treasure Hunt turns solving math puzzles into an exciting adventure. Set up a treasure hunt where each clue is a math problem that needs to be solved to find the next location. This activity makes math problem-solving thrilling and enhances logical reasoning and critical thinking skills.

Age group: 7-12

Learning Focus: Problem-solving, logical reasoning.

11. Counting Stars

Stars with numbers

Counting Stars is a serene and educational activity that combines math learning with basic astronomy. On a clear night, children can count stars, learn about large numbers, and learn basic astronomical concepts. This activity not only introduces children to the vastness of the universe but also to the concept of infinity in a physical math activity setting.

Learning Focus: Counting, introduction to astronomy, and large numbers.

12. Stick Tally Challenge

Tally with sticks

The Stick Tally Challenge is an engaging outdoor math activity that combines nature exploration with learning basic counting and representation skills. In this activity, children gather sticks during an outdoor walk and use them to create tally marks . This hands-on approach helps them understand the concept of tallying and counting in a fun and interactive way. It’s an excellent method for teaching kids how to represent numbers visually and keep track of counting in groups of five.

Age group: 4-9 

Learning Focus: Basic counting, representation of numbers, fine motor skills.

13. Outdoor Number Line

Kids mankind number line

Create a giant number line in an open space using chalk or rope. Assign different math problems or equations to specific points on the number line. Kids can jump or hop to the correct answer, helping them practice addition , subtraction , or multiplication while having fun in a physical math activity setting.

Learning Focus: Basic arithmetic, number line concepts.

14. Math Picnic

Math picnic written on a colorful background

Organize a math-themed picnic where the food items are used to teach various math concepts. For instance, use slices of pizza to teach fractions or count the number of grapes in a bunch. This hands-on approach combines outdoor enjoyment with math learning.

Learning Focus: Fractions, counting, and simple arithmetic

7  Benefits of Outdoor Math Activities

Engaging in outdoor math activities offers many benefits for children. These activities not only make learning math more enjoyable but also contribute to their overall development. Here are some of the key advantages:

  • Hands-On Learning: Outdoor math activities provide a tangible, hands-on approach to learning math concepts. Children can touch, see, and experience mathematical ideas in the real world, making abstract concepts more concrete.
  • Enhanced Engagement: The novelty of learning outdoors sparks interest and enthusiasm among children. They are likelier to be engaged and motivated when math is integrated into fun outdoor experiences.
  • Connection with Nature: Outdoor activities foster a connection with the natural world. Children learn about math by observing natural patterns, shapes, and phenomena, which can inspire a greater appreciation for the environment.
  • Reduction of Math Anxiety: For some children, math can be intimidating. These activities offer a relaxed and non-threatening environment to build confidence in their math skills.
  • Multi-Sensory Learning: Outdoor math engages multiple senses – sight, touch, and sometimes even hearing or smell. This multi-sensory approach helps children retain information better.
  • Life Skills : Math activities in the outdoors often involve practical skills such as measurement, time-telling, and money calculations. These skills are essential for everyday life and are learned in a real-world context.
  • Positive Attitude Towards Math: By associating math with enjoyable outdoor experiences, children are more likely to develop a positive attitude towards the subject, leading to improved academic performance.

In the great outdoors, we’ve discovered the beauty of math. Now, let’s bring that wonder indoors with SplashLearn. Our indoor math adventures are designed to make math a year-round delight. Join us on this educational journey and help your child embrace the magic of numbers, both indoors and out.

Frequently Asked Questions  (FAQs)

What is meant by outdoor activities in mathematics learning.

Outdoor activities in mathematics learning involve engaging in math-focused games, explorations, and practical applications in an outdoor setting, enhancing real-world understanding.

Why do we teach maths outside?

Teaching maths outside offers a dynamic, hands-on learning experience , fostering engagement and practical application of mathematical concepts in the natural environment.

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29 Best Outdoor STEM Activities for Kids

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We love spending time outside, but I also love finding new, and engaging activities that incorporate some learning to do while we’re outside. This collection of 29 Best Outdoor STEM Activities for Kids includes hands-on challenges, activities with water, printables and lots of exciting experiments. So peek through at the ideas below, or have your kids look through and choose activities that interest them.

I have lots of ideas for STEM activities to try with kids, including my popular list of 45+ STEM Challenge Ideas and the second collection of 60 Best STEM Activities for Kids .

When you’re looking to get outside, take a STEM activity with you. STEM activities are great for developing problem solving, team building, and critical thinking skills.

STEM activities focus on the important subjects: s cience, t echnology, e ngineering and m ath. Ideally STEM activities include a mix of these subjects.

outdoor STEM activities shows a pinterest pin.

Outdoor STEM Challenges with Water

If you’re looking for a STEM activity to do outside on a warm day, try one that incorporates water! The activities below all include some water mixed into the activity. For more hands-on STEM activities using water, check out 33+ Best Water STEM Activities .

Learn about the importance of clean water with this STEM challenge. Bring materials with you and grab a cup of water from a pond, or another water source to make the activity even more authentic.

clean water science experiment shows a cup with layers for water to run through.

Learn all about sound while playing with water and kitchen tools with this Musical Science Pool Experiment. Test different sounds made by different tools.

outdoor STEM activities shows a child playing in a small pool with bowls.

Take tower building to the next level. Build a city on water and see how it fares against the waves. Kids learn about balance and even sink/float.

outdoor STEM activities shows a child building with foam blocks in water.

Use your water balloons for some summer science! In the laminar flow experiment, water appears to freeze when it’s coming out of a balloon. The secret to this magic trick is, as almost always, science.

outdoor STEM activities shows three water balloons in a bowl.

Use your senses outside with hands-on, experimental learning, as children explore the properties of different materials. They can learn about recognizing different temperatures and textures. The path also includes a bin where children explore the concept of floating versus sinking.

summer sensory path shows a child walking through a bin with water balloons in it.

Grab some pool noodles and reuse them for this hands-on STEM challenge. If you try the activity during the summer, you could even use the pool to test each child’s creation. It’s a fun idea for a summer party!

outdoor STEM activities shows a bunch of cut up pool noodles and supplies for a pool noodle STEM activity.

Engineering Challenges

Take materials outside to engineer different designs. Enjoy being outside while you build and test these creations! For more building challenges, check out 10 Bridge Building Challenges .

How far can you make a balloon go with this balloon rocket experiment? Try different designs and test over and over to get your balloon to go the furthest. This is a great activity to do outside where you have lots of room.

balloon rocket shows two children holding balloons attached to a string.

Create a ramp outside using only a few pieces of wood and clothes pins. Test how the speed of a marble is affected by the angle of the board. This experiment is always a lot of fun for kids, and groups.

STEM project for kids shows a ramp build by a piece of wood and sides with wood and held together with clothes pins.

Watch a superhero fly through the air! Attach a superhero figure to string and test different heights and angles of the string to see which one makes your superhero fly faster. Using a tree house or playground as the top height makes this a great activity to try when you’re at a park outside.

gravity experiment shows a superhero figure attached to a string in the sky.

Create an Ewok catapult with this STEM activity using a collection of items from nature.

outdoor STEM activities shows a catapult made with twigs and sticks.

Egg Drop Challenge

The object of an egg drop challenge is for kids to design a contraption using various materials (usually recyclables) to protect a raw egg from a high fall. Kids always love this STEM activity!

stem for kids shows a man on a roof dropping a bag with an egg inside.

In this fun STEM activity for kids, children will design and build a structure to protect an animal craft (made from UV-sensitive beads) from the sun.

outdoor STEM activities shows a shelter made with a critter made from UV beads.

Play with physics as your kids put their critical thinking skills to the test to engineer this fun bottle rocket.

water bottle rocket shows a water bottle shooting up into the sky.

Combine plant science with engineering and physics by making seed bombs with launchers and help rewild your yard.

outdoor STEM activities shows two rockets and balls of soils and dirt.

Challenge children to create a raft using materials from around them in nature, including sticks. Test the creations in a stream or pond.

outdoor STEM activities shows two children playing with boats in a stream.

Printable Outdoor STEM Activities

Sometimes a printable is a great addition to an outdoor activity. The activities below each include a printable page, or two, and all are done outside.

Head outside to solve puzzles and challenges with an outdoor scavenger hunt escape room game. Children explore outside for the puzzles and solving them leads to the next.

outdoor STEM activities shows a child getting a cut out picture of a leaf from a tree.

How far can you make your rocket go? Use the free printable rocket and design your own rocket to send into the sky. Test and check how far it goes with this Straw Rocket STEM Challenge.

outdoor STEM activities shows a rocket clipart on a straw.

On a hike, or trip outside, sometimes challenging children to work through a booklet is a great way to explore lots of the outdoors. This outdoor learning booklet has children looking at shapes, senses and even a building challenge.

outdoor STEM activities shows a face made from nature stuff.

Heading camping this season? Create an escape room game at your camp site. Children use coding, matching and problem solving skills to figure out the puzzles, all side!

camping escape room shows a puzzle in a bag buried under leaves.

Explore your senses with a printable, Free 5 Senses Scavenger Hunt. As children search for each of the items on the page, they will explore their outdoor environment in a whole new way.

senses scavenger hunt shows a printable check list on a flower pot.

Winter Outdoor STEM Activities

Although we typically spend more time outside in beautiful weather, there are still lots of fun things to do outside in the winter and colder weather. Check out the following outdoor STEM activities to use in winter!

This FREE printable winter outdoor activity incorporates math and basic number sense to complete the puzzles.

winter scavenger hunt shows puzzles in the snow.

How do polar bears stay warm in winter? Kids ask great science questions. This free printable activity sends children on a scavenger hunt to search for animals in winter. They’ll learn a bit about what different animals do to survive the cold.

outdoor STEM activities shows a ladybug stuffed animal in the snow.

Outdoor STEM Activities Using the Sun

On those sunny days and throughout the summer, make sure to check out a huge list of 37 Simple Summer STEM Activities filled with indoor, and outdoor, summer themed activities.

Year after year, a DIY solar oven is a classic outdoor STEM challenge when the temperature rises!

outdoor STEM activities shows a solar oven.

We’ve all left chocolate, or other food outside at some point and had it melt. Do certain materials cause the melting to happen faster? Test your theory with this simple summer science experiment for kids.

outdoor STEM activities shows a plate with three squares of chocolate on each section.

This may look like an art project, but it is so much more! Use crayons and shave them to create crayon curls. Place the curls onto canvas to make an art picture. Let the sun do the rest! Have kids watch as the crayons melt. Is there a color, or two that melt the fastest? Why would some melt faster?

melted crayon art shows a canvas with crayon curls on it.

Bring some art to your science this summer by making cyanotype sun art!

outdoor STEM activities shows a board with flowers under a piece of glass.

Harness the power of the sun and make crayons with this creative hot weather science experiment for kids! Set-up is a breeze, and there is little-to-no clean-up.

summer art shows six containers with pieces of crayons on it.

Exciting Outdoor Experiments

If you, or your kids love campfire, you’ve got to try this! This green fire experiment is simple to do and amazing to observe!

outdoor STEM activities shows a cup with a green flame coming out of it.

This is a classic STEM activity that will delight your kids. Grab some Coke and mentos and see what happens.

science for kids shows a child smiling at a jar exploding from mentos and coke.

In this experiment you’ll create a chemical reaction using baking soda and vinegar that will make a baggie explode!

outdoor STEM activities shows a baggie stretched with a puddle of green inside.

My kids would love this activity! When kids eat watermelons, they love to spit the seeds. Turn their interest into your latest math activity with this Outdoor Watermelon Math activity.

watermelon math shows a child on a START line in chalk and a picture of watermelon slices.

Bubbles are part of summer! Create your bubbles and a bubble snake! Kids will love this variation on classic bubble fun!

summer activities for kids shows a child blowing into a cylinder thats making bubbles.

I hope these activities have given you lots of screen-free, exciting STEM ideas to try outdoors this season!

Outdoor STEM FREEBIES

Hands-On Teaching Ideas Free Resource Library includes lots of free printables for STEM activities and much more. With the library growing to over 100 resources, you’ll find free escape room games, math printables, worksheets, and much more.

Whether you’re an educator or someone looking for something unique to do with kids, you’ll find lots of ideas in the library. A few printables related to outdoor STEM are shown below. Click the lock icon on the following image and subscribe to Hands-On Teaching Ideas.

outdoor problem solving activities

Once you have confirmed, you can access the Free Library and search through for any resources you’d like to use.

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Sometimes the best way to sneak in a little learning is in unlikely places.  How about teaching some math at the park or in your own backyard?  Here are some outdoor math ideas for kids.

outdoor math activities for kids

After a long cold winter, it finally feels like summer! My kids have been spending a lot of time outside, so I’ve put together this list of ways that we’ve done some math in the great outdoors.

Outdoor Math Ideas

Counting, number recognition, one-to-one correspondence –, count the pine cones.

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

Under our pine trees we have thousands of tiny little pine cones. So following an idea from Peaceful Parenting , I drew boxes with the numbers 1-20 on the driveway.  Then my just-turned Four worked at filling up the numbers through 10 and my Five counted pine cones for the larger numbers.

Sorting, Measurement – Sort sticks by size

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

Despite my nervousness around little boys and very long sticks, my Four and Five love to collect the big sticks they find in our yard and the little wooded area in the back.  They rang the doorbell to show me all the sticks they had collected… and sorted by size.   You could also have your child put the sticks in order from shortest to longest.  You could do the same thing with leaves or wildflowers.

Measurement – Very Big & Very Small Hunt

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

Last spring, I printed this set of action cards and had my kids (ages 2,4, and 5 at the time) hunt for objects in the yard.  They loved this very active scavenger hunt, and it was great for teaching my almost-three-year-old about size.  I think we’ll have to pull it out again this year!  Learn more and get your free printable action cards in this post .

Patterns – Create nature patterns

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

 Addition, Subtraction, Number Recognition –

Water balloon math.

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

This game can be modified in so many different ways. Prepare some water balloons and write either a single number or an addition or subtraction fact on each one.  Then write matching numbers (or answers to the addition and subtraction problems) on your driveway or sidewalk. As your child chooses a balloon he throws it on the matching number or answer.

My kids loved learning and staying cool at the same time!

Fractions – Giant Fractions on the Driveway

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

Fractions can be a difficult concept, but this short lesson seemed to do the trick for my Five.  I drew a large rectangle on the driveway.  We talked about how this was one whole rectangle. Then I divided it in two equal parts (okay, they weren’t exactly equal, but the kids didn’t notice).  I had my Five stand in one part to show “one half.”  Then his sister stood in the other half to show “one half.”  We talked about how two halves make a whole.

Then we worked together to show different fractions. In the above picture we made “3/4.”

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

The kids liked finding ways to make fractions all by themselves.  Here my Seven is showing “4/4.”  This also gave us the chance to talk about equivalent fractions.  “4/4”  is the same thing as “one whole.”

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

My Five likes to find any opportunity he can to demonstrate standing on his head.  This worked well for “1/4.”

Number Recognition, Counting – 

Mr. wolf, what time is it.

Looking for some outdoor math ideas? Here you'll find a variety of activities for kids in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade.

This game was designed for my just-turned-Four, but it wouldn’t have been fun without his older siblings playing along. I had written the numbers 1-12 on pieces of construction paper.  I was the Wolf and stood at the end of the yard.  The kids stood facing me at the other end of the yard.

They called, “Mr. Wolf, what time is it?”  Then I showed a number, and they took turns reading it.  When I showed the “2,” for example, one of them would say “2:00!”  Then they walked toward me that number of steps.

Periodically I would put down the pages and call out “Lunch time!”  At that point the kids would try to reach the tree behind me or run back to start, where they were “safe.”  I ran after them to try to catch them. If they reached the tree behind me safely, they could be the next Wolf.

Hint: wear shoes you can run in. This is excellent exercise for the mom.

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outdoor problem solving activities

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outdoor problem solving activities

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21 comments.

Stacey Marsh

April 8, 2019 at 5:22 am

Thank you for sharing all your great ideas. My first graders love these engaging activities. This is the first sight I visit when looking for new ideas to teach. Thanks again.

April 27, 2019 at 8:36 am

You’re welcome, Stacey!

October 4, 2018 at 9:54 am

These are really neat! I like the stick sizes and the counting objects in groups! thanks so much!

October 23, 2018 at 5:54 am

I hope you get a chance to try some of these with your learners, Stephanie! 🙂

May 20, 2018 at 1:24 pm

Your site is amazing! Thanks so much for all the great resources! Stephanie… Northern Ireland 🙂

June 2, 2018 at 3:36 pm

You’re welcome, Stephanie!

Edna Laserna

March 15, 2018 at 2:46 am

Thank you so much for accepting me in your blog. Your activities really help me to improve my teaching in different areas.

March 15, 2018 at 6:49 pm

You’re very welcome, Edna!

Milagros Montalvo

March 7, 2017 at 10:26 am

I’m working on an article for Scholastic Teacher magazine. In each issue, Teacher compiles lesson ideas on specific topics to share with teachers. (Readers total about 100,000 K-8 teachers in print and many more online.) You can see an example of these lesson ideas here.

I’m currently working on ideas for outdoor math activities for grades K-1. I came across your outdoor activities and would love to include one or two. They are so creative! I’m reaching out to ask your permission for me to summarize the lesson and quote from your blog post. I’m on a tight deadline and, as such, would appreciate your response by Friday, March 10.

Please also send along the following information for me to include: Full name (as you’d like to see it published): Grade you teach: School where you teach and city/state: Would you like for me to include your blog’s name (and link to it in the online version of the article)? Anything you’d like to add about the activity: A photo of the activity w/a photo credit

I look forward to hearing from you!

Anna Geiger

March 10, 2017 at 8:49 am

Thank you for reaching out! While I would love to be included, I do not have high quality photos of any of these activities. We are still having winter weather, so I wouldn’t be able to take new pictures for you. Thank you anyway!

June 14, 2015 at 3:48 pm

Nice ideas, I hope it works well with my pupils. Thank you

modernsensefurniture

August 23, 2014 at 7:08 pm

I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was great.

I do not know who you are but definitely you are going to a famous blogger if you aren’t already 😉 Cheers!

July 9, 2014 at 8:00 am

I love these math activites! Good for both my 8 year old and 4 year old!

July 12, 2014 at 8:44 pm

Thanks for commenting, Susen!

June 11, 2014 at 10:47 am

You have the best ideas! Thanks for sharing already used a bunch for my 3 and 1.5 kids, and I look forward to incorporating them into my classroom next year!

July 6, 2014 at 9:34 am

Thank you so much, Carmen! I hope your students enjoy them.

June 5, 2014 at 2:11 pm

These look fun! I will definitely try these with my kids!

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  1. 5 Simple Problem Solving Activities for Toddlers

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  3. Outdoor Problem Solving Activities KS2- Learning Maths

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COMMENTS

  1. Outdoor Problem Solving Activities KS2- Learning Maths

    See these outdoor problem solving activities KS2 to help your children enjoy learning maths outdoors. See how they can learn in the outdoors!

  2. 45 Outdoor STEM Activities For Kids - Little Bins for Little ...

    Welcome to our list of amazing outdoor STEM activities to keep your kids busy outside! Get kids outdoors to enjoy the natural world while developing problem-solving, creativity, observation, engineering skills, and more. We love easy and doable STEM projects for kids!

  3. Outdoor Math Games – 50 Ideas That Really Work

    Problem-solving; Find more/less; Some examples of fantastic outdoor board games include: Noughts And Crosses. This seems to be known more by the modern generation as tic tac toe. It is a brilliant game for problem-solving and simple counting, as well as turn-taking.

  4. 23 Exciting Outdoor Math Games for Kids - OhMyClassroom.com

    Whether you’re a teacher looking to spice up your lessons or a parent seeking engaging activities for your children, these outdoor math games are sure to captivate learners of all ages while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for mathematics.

  5. 25 Outdoor maths games for Everyone - Maths Week Scotland

    Provide the game as a homework challenge to learn. Then when you come together to play outside, you can share ideas and tactics for outdoor versions. If you have a child who cannot cope with losing, then a useful strategy is to offer that they play by themselves using both counters.

  6. 14 Best Outdoor Math Activities for Kids to Boost Math Skills

    Elevate math education with outdoor math activities for kids that spark joy and boost math skills. Discover the magic of learning in the great outdoors.

  7. 29 Best Outdoor STEM Activities for Kids - Hands-On Teaching ...

    Clean Water Experiment. Learn all about sound while playing with water and kitchen tools with this Musical Science Pool Experiment. Test different sounds made by different tools. Musical Science Pool. Take tower building to the next level. Build a city on water and see how it fares against the waves. Kids learn about balance and even sink/float.

  8. Outdoor Maths Activities KS2 - Play of the Wild

    I have put together some fun outdoor maths activities for KS2 to support teaching maths outside. Teaching maths outside is a wonderful way to explore different mathematical ideas and practice learning away from the classroom. It also exposes children to the use of maths in real, hands-on situations, and as well as to problem solve.

  9. Outdoor Math Ideas for Kids Ages 3-7 - The Measured Mom

    Water Balloon Math. This game can be modified in so many different ways. Prepare some water balloons and write either a single number or an addition or subtraction fact on each one. Then write matching numbers (or answers to the addition and subtraction problems) on your driveway or sidewalk.

  10. Outdoor Maths Activities KS1 -Maths Outdoor Learning – Play ...

    Outdoor Maths Activities KS1 -Maths Outdoor Learning. The following is a list of some of my favourite outdoor maths learning activities for KS1 (Key stage 1 – ages approximately 5-7). Maths in outdoor and outside learning is a fun way for children to use maths in real, hands-on situations.