This activity supports EYFS and Key Stage 1 Maths objectives by helping children recognise and use coins in practical situations, sort objects by size and value, and count small amounts. It also supports PSHE learning outcomes by introducing the idea that money is something we keep safe and use to buy things we need or want.
What you'll need 🪙
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A handful of mixed coins (real or pretend - ÂŁ1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p)
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A few small bowls, cups, or containers for sorting.
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Optional: a timer or stopwatch on your phone to make it more exciting.
What to do 🔍
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Hide the coins. Hide the coins around a room or under objects (like cushions or toys). Tell your child they're going on a coin treasure hunt!
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Start the hunt. Give your child a bag, bowl, or basket to collect the coins. Let them hunt for a few minutes and gather everything they can find.
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Sort and talk. Once all the coins are found, help your child sort them into groups - by size, colour, or value. Point out that different coins look and feel different, and talk about what each one is worth.
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Count together. Choose one type of coin (e.g. 10p coins) and count how many they have. If they're ready, you can help them count the total value (for example, "Three 10p coins makes 30p").
Questions to ask your child đź’¬
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"Can you find two coins that look the same?"
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"Which coin do you think is worth the most?"
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"If you had five 10p coins, how much money would that be?"
What your child will learn 🎓
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To recognise different coins and notice their shapes, sizes, and colours.
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To sort and group objects by simple characteristics (an early maths skill).
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To begin understanding that coins have different values.
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To count small quantities using one-to-one correspondence.