Odd and Even Sorting

Focus: Counting, sorting, and understanding odd and even numbers

This ten frame activity introduces the concept of odd and even numbers in a fun, visual way. By spotting which numbers make complete pairs, children begin to understand one of the key building blocks of number.

Equipment you’ll need:

• Ten frame

• Counters or cubes in one colour

How to play:

1. Ask your child to fill the ten frame with a certain number of counters — start with small numbers like 3, 4, or 5.

2. Line up the counters in pairs, one above the other.

3. Ask:

   • “Does every counter have a partner?”

   • “Is there one left over?”

4. Explain: if every counter has a partner, it’s an even number; if there’s one left over, it’s odd.

Extension idea:

Record odd and even numbers on the whiteboard. Try to spot the pattern; which numbers are even? What happens every second number?

Why it matters:

This activity helps children see what makes a number odd or even, not just memorise it. Understanding pairing and pattern lays strong foundations for division, multiplication, and problem-solving later on.