Missing Spots Game
Focus: Subtraction, number bonds, and problem-solving
This ten frame game helps children begin to understand subtraction by spotting what’s missing. It’s a quick, visual way to build confidence in number bonds and counting back, all through playful discovery.
Equipment you’ll need:
Ten frame (from your Starter Pack)
Counters or cubes in two colours
Optional: Whiteboard and pen to record answers
How to play:
Place some counters on the ten frame, for example, 8.
Ask your child: “How many spaces are empty?” or “How many more to make 10?”
Count the empty spaces together.
Repeat with different numbers to explore all the possibilities.
Extension idea:
Use two ten frames to explore numbers greater than 10. Or write the matching number sentence on the whiteboard (e.g. 10 – 8 = 2 or 8 + 2 = 10).
Why it matters:
By focusing on what’s missing, children begin to see subtraction as part of the same relationship as addition. This visual approach builds fluency with number bonds and strengthens mental maths skills.