Number Puzzles DIY

Hi! Even thought I am not a substitute teacher any more, this page received a lot of view thanks to my Pinterest post (even though I think it was the thumbnail picture that did it- gotta love visual learners!). I will keep the name for now! For my first official teacher sharing moment, I will share with you my very popular Math Center, Number Puzzles. This is an easy DIY center that can be kept forever and easily differentiated. It works on number recognition as well as some critical thinking/problem solving skills. My Kindergarteners love them!

Note: This idea was inspired by Make, Take, Teach 's blog post. She has free printables on her page as well! I created a few of my own because they were such a success with my students. 

Number Puzzles:
What you need: 

• craft sticks (10 per puzzle - thick size)
• Picture printouts: visit my TPT store for the FREE download
• Modge Podge (OR make your own Modge Podge using Glue and Water!!!)
• a Spatula
• Exacto Knife
• Thin Point Sharpie

Step 1: Make Modge Podge

Use a glass jar with a lid and pour however much glue you would like. If you added 16 ounces of glue, you will add 8 ounces of water. You need half of the amount of water as glue.

Shake it up!!!!

Step 2: Glue Picture to Popsicle Sticks

Line up 10 craft sticks side-by-side. Tape them together so they don't move! Then, lay a thin layer of glue on the side without the tape and place picture on top.

 Then, add a thin layer of modge podge on top of the picture. 
Step 3: Let it dry!!!!!
Step 4: Write numbers on bottom of craft sticks.
You can use whatever numbers you want!!!! I used a few puzzles as 1-10, a few more from 11-20, and one more as 21-30. 

Step 5:Use Exacto Knife to separate sticks.

Place them in a plastic baggie and label to avoid confusion!

This has actually been a center for over a month now. My students were very slow at first but are starting to figure out ways to finish quickly. It can be independent or group work. 

Enjoy!

Kate