Addition with Space — Kindergarten

This kindergarten worksheet mixes two kinds of rows so the same space things keep the child thinking. On some rows a group of rockets, planets and a star sits beside a written number and the child adds to find the total; on others the total is already there and one part is shown, so the child works out the part that completes it — the make-ten, find-the-part idea. Switching between adding and finding a part stops the page becoming automatic and keeps the meaning of the numbers in view.

Making a total from its parts and adding parts into a total are the same relationship seen from two directions. Kindergartners who practise both with the same space things build the make-ten and part-whole habits later written arithmetic leans on, and because the amounts stay small, every answer is still something the child can check by counting the pictures.

Children who like space enjoy the change of pace from row to row, and it works well for a small group ready to think in more than one direction. When the numbers feel easy, count a fresh group in addition with thanksgiving, or try addition with vegetables. You can also browse every addition worksheet or the whole space things collection for kindergarten — each sheet prints cleanly in black and white or plays online for free.