Build Number Sense with One More One Less Math Games
Looking for an engaging, hands-on way to build number sense before introducing addition and subtraction symbols? These one more one less math games are the perfect bridge between early number understanding and formal math operations.
Through play-based math centers and simple strategy games, students explore the relationships between numbers—developing mental math skills, confidence, and a strong math foundation in the process.
Why One More One Less Math Games Are So Effective
Before kids are ready for symbols like “+” and “−,” they need to internalize how numbers relate to each other. These one more one less math centers give them that opportunity in a way that feels natural, developmentally appropriate, and fun.
By practicing one more and one less, students begin to:
Strengthen number sense through repetition and play
Build early mental math strategies (+1 and −1)
Recognize patterns and structure in numbers
Develop confidence without the pressure of formal equations
What’s Included in These One More One Less Math Centers
This resource includes five hands-on math games and activities designed for kindergarten and first grade learners. Whether you're running math centers, guided math groups, or early finisher bins, these activities offer both structure and flexibility.
Here’s what you get:
🎲 "One More" board game with numerals
🎲 "One More" subitizing game with dice, ten frames, fingers, and tallies
🔢 "One Less" board game with numerals
🔢 "One Less" subitizing game with visual representations
✂️ Clip cards for independent one more/one less practice
All games come with kid-friendly directions, and you’ll receive both color and black-and-white options for easy printing.
Why These Centers Work
What makes these centers so effective is their natural progression toward formal operations. Students are learning critical math concepts while staying in their comfort zone! I love that these centers:
Remove the intimidation factor of mathematical symbols
Build confidence through game-based learning
Offer multiple ways to represent numbers (numerals, ten frames, dice, tallies, and fingers)
Provide differentiation options to meet every learner where they are
Making it Work in Your Classroom
These centers are perfect for math rotations, partner work, or guided math groups.
Start by introducing each game during whole group instruction before adding it to your centers.
The clip cards work beautifully as an independent station while you're working with small groups. The kid-friendly instructions will make it super easy for your students to refresh their memories on how to play.
Use these games alongside your introduction to addition and subtraction. When students see that adding one is just like finding "one more," the plus and minus signs become much less daunting!
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