Updated 2026
Working with numbers in math is a skill that needs a lot of practice for kindergarten students. One fun way to practice addition and subtraction facts is with double sided beans tthat provide an engaging math center.
2 sided beans are so much fun because they give kiddos a chance to play and interact with a manipulative, a 2 sided bean, in a concrete way to see that 2 parts make a whole. Of course, I created recording sheets for accoutability and number writing. Grab them HERE.
Before I start any math time, we always watch a fun video to get this kiddos minds focused on math plus a bit of movement. Check out a few fun math videos that I use to start any math lesson.
📌this image for later
Materials for 2 Sided Beans
When I first started working, I spray painted lima beans with red spray paint. One side was red and the other was bean colored. I quickly found 2 sided plastic beans that were much easier. You could also use 2 sided counters just as well.
Working on number sense using double sided beans.
How do you play?
Each pair had 3 red/white beans.
1. Shake them
1. Shake them
2. Drop them.
3. Tell how many
red and how many white.
“1 red and 2 white makes 3”
Once the 3 math facts were mastered, we then use other numbers!
Engaging Math Games
During math center time, I place a number flag on the table with a container of 2 sided beans. The kiddos’ jobs are to fill the table with groups of that number. Of course, they work with a friend and must tell the parts and the total. This is the 1st step in developing addition fact fluency without worrying about number writing or equations.
After we practice with a number, we complete a recording sheet in groups or by ourselves. This would be a seperate lesson, an indoor recess activity, or for early finishers.
After students drop the beans and say how many red and white beans that make the total. They record the number by coloring the red beans. Then they record how many red and how many white beans.
I then place these worksheets in a math center with that exact nunmber of beans in a baggie. The great thing is if I cange the number of beans, the kiddos think it’s a brand new game!
This recording sheet tells the families what we did in school and how to practice at home. It makes a great home/school connection.
Great ideas for other math skills.
So make sure to go check out my store, Debora Marines Teach Magically for more resources for learners! Remember all new products are 50% off the first 24 hours so be sure to follow.
Also would love to connect so here’s where you can find me:
Make everyday magical,
Debora from Teach Magically
I Love the hands on options for kids! Great activities!