About Count the Squares
Colored squares join up into a shape, and your child counts how many squares it takes. Rectangles invite a faster trick: count one row, then count the rows. The oldest kids see only an outline with side lengths and work out the area.
How to play
- Count every square in the shape and tap the total.
- On an outline, use the side lengths to work out the area.
- On a computer, choose an answer with the number keys, counting from 1.
What your child practices
- Counting squares
- Rows and columns
- Area of rectangles
- Splitting shapes into parts
How it grows with your child
LittleAges 4-6
Small shapes of four to eight colored squares, with three choices.
YoungAges 6-8
Rectangles and other shapes of up to 20 squares.
Big KidsAges 8-11
Just an outline with side lengths, for rectangles and L-shapes, with four choices.
Play together
Color a shape on graph paper and ask your child how many squares it covers, then swap roles.
