Get Moving with Maths: 3 Outdoor Physical Games for Years 1 and 2

Welcome to Gymnastrix, where we blend fun with learning to create memorable experiences for young minds. Today, we’re focusing on three fantastic physical maths games designed for kids in Years 1 and 2. These activities not only get the kids moving but also help reinforce their math skills in a fun and engaging way. Perfect for a sunny afternoon at the park or your own backyard!

1. Number Hopscotch

What You Need:

• Chalk (if you're playing on concrete) or large numbers written on paper plates
• A small beanbag or a soft marker

How to Play:

1. Draw a hopscotch grid on the ground using chalk, or place the numbered paper plates in a sequence on the grass.
2. Write numbers 1 through 10 (or higher, depending on the skill level) in each section.
3. Call out a number and have the kids hop from one number to the next in the correct sequence. For added challenge, ask them to perform a simple math problem before hopping, like “What’s 2 plus 3?” and hop to the answer.

Why It’s Great: Hopscotch is a classic game that helps with number recognition and sequencing. By incorporating simple maths questions, kids practice addition and subtraction while improving their balance and coordination.

2. Maths Relay Race

What You Need:

• A set of maths flashcards or question cards
• Cones or markers to set up the race course

How to Play:

1. Set up a relay course with cones or markers.
2. Divide the kids into two teams and line them up at the start line.
3. Place a set of maths flashcards or question cards at the end of the course.
4. The first player from each team races to the end, picks a card, and solves the maths problem (e.g., “What’s 4 plus 5?”).
5. Once they solve it correctly, they run back and tag the next player in line.

Why It’s Great: This relay race promotes teamwork and problem-solving while getting the kids to run, jump, and enjoy the thrill of competition. It’s a fantastic way to build both physical and cognitive skills.

3. Shape Scavenger Hunt

What You Need:

• Small shapes cut out from coloured paper or foam
• A list of shapes to find

How to Play:

1. Hide the shapes around your outdoor area—under bushes, behind trees, or in plain sight.
2. Give the kids a list of the shapes they need to find (e.g., circle, square, triangle).
3. As they find each shape, they can bring it back to a central point and identify it. For an extra challenge, ask them to count how many of each shape they’ve found.

Why It’s Great: This scavenger hunt helps with shape recognition and spatial awareness. It’s an excellent way for kids to practice their understanding of geometric shapes while exploring their surroundings.

Wrapping Up
​These outdoor physical maths games are not only entertaining but also educational. They help young learners improve their math skills in an active and enjoyable way. At Gymnastrix, we believe in making learning a dynamic and interactive experience, and these games are a perfect example of that philosophy.
Give these games a go and watch as your little ones have a blast while learning. For more fun ideas and activities, keep visiting our blog and stay tuned to Gymnastrix for all things fitness and fun!
Happy playing!