This game reinforces the skill of quickly recalling basic addition and subtraction facts.

What you’ll need:

  • An inflated beach ball
  • Permanent marker (black or dark blue)

Here’s how to do it

Divide the ball into large sections with the permanent marker. In each section write a numeral. Toss the ball to another player or up in the air and catch. Locate the sections in which the player’s thumb has landed, and remember the numeral. Toss the ball again and note where the catcher’s thumb lands. Add or subtract these numerals. Keep playing!

Extensions of the game

Increase the difficulty by using larger numbers to add and subtract, or by multiplying the numbers.