There’s just something fun about pom poms. They’re soft, fuzzy, and perfect for a little hands-on math work.

This Pom Pom Addition game is a simple activity that can be played by one student or a small group. They’ll have a blast practicing their additions skills this way.

Set up the game:

All you need is a set of pom poms, the printable addition mat, and a set of dice.

Print out your addition mat and laminate it for durability. The kids will want to play this again and again, so you’ll want it to last. Grab your addition mat here.

Group each addition mat together with two dice and at least 24 pom poms (the amount you’ll need for the largest addition combo you can get from the dice: 6+6=12).

How to play the game:

Throw the dice. Count the dots on the first die and add that amount of pom poms to the first circle. Then, count the dots on the second die and add that amount of pom poms to the second circle.

Add the two numbers together and add the correct amount of pom poms in the bottom circle.

Once you’ve found your answer, clear the mat and then keep throwing the dice and solving the math problem using your pom poms.

If there is more than one kid playing, each student will take turns throwing the dice and working the problem.

Extend the fun:

Extend the learning by having your students write down each number sentence they create.

Switch out the pom poms for other fun manipulatives. Use seasonal mini erasers, paper clips, or buttons, for example.

Use pennies, nickels, or dimes for money counting practice instead of simple addition.

How would you play this addition game?

Don’t forget to download your pom pom addition mat here.