Subtraction can be a difficult concept for children to grasp. It may seem simple to some that when something is “taken away” then there is something leftover, but what helps even more is having a visual! To visually see an object being removed or “taken away” definitely helps children understand the concept of subtraction. These adorable and free Bug Subtraction Cards are the perfect tool for children to practice subtraction!
*Pair with our Subtraction Centers and Activities for Pre-K & Kindergarten!
Bug Subtraction Cards
I would suggest using these Bug Subtraction Cards in Kindergarten and 1st grade. You can use them as a stand-alone math center or pull kids for small group work. If you have kiddos that are still working on addition then be sure to grab our Bug Addition Cards!
I like to laminate the cards so they are more durable and last longer. It also gives children a chance to use dry erase markers, which always makes them extra excited to get down to work!
How to Play
Children will begin by picking a bug card and counting the total number of spots on the bug. This is the number that goes in the first box of the math equation.
Once he/she has the starting point for the math equation, they will then count how many spots on the bug are crossed out.
This is the number that is being “taken away.” This number goes in the second box of the math equation.
To find the answer, simply count how many spots are remaining on the bug.
The remaining number of spots on the bug is the number that is written in the final box of the math equation.
Tips for additional play:
- Encourage children to use different colored dry erase markers for each part of the equation.
- Work in pairs. Children take turns pulling a bug subtraction card from a small basket and completing the equation. Partners “check” each other’s work.
Grab Your FREE Copy
Ready to start subtracting with bugs? Grab these free Bug Subtraction Cards by clicking the large, yellow download button at the bottom of this post!
Even More Bug-Themed Fun
Looking for more bug activities? You will love the ones some of my favorite kid bloggers and I are sharing! Check them all out below.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
Ladybug Life Cycle Wheel // The STEM Laboratory
Bug Puzzles (Beginning Sounds) // Fairy Poppins
Bug Subtraction Cards // The Kindergarten Connection
Ladybug Editable Sight Word Puzzles // A Dab of Glue Will Do
Printable Ladybug Letter Puzzles and Sensory Bin // Fun-A-Day
Simple Outdoor Ant Experiment // Science Kiddo
Ladybug One More One Less Activity // Fantastic Fun and Learning
Bug Jar Addition and Subtraction Mats // Fun Learning for Kids
Counting Ants Math Game // Mrs. Jones’ Creation Station
Insect Theme Prewriting Practice // Stay at Home Educator
I Spy Bugs Sensory Bin // Teach Me Mommy
Insect Printable Sorting Worksheet // Fun with Mama
Bug Counting Clip Cards // Playdough to Plato
Ladybug Counting Cards 1-20 // Powerful Mothering
Butterfly Life Cycle Mini Book Freebie // The Primary Post
Homemade Butterfly Playdough Kit // Sugar Spice and Glitter
CVC Bug Matching Game // Sweet Sounds of Kindergarten
Bug Story Problems // Recipe for Teaching
Bugs: How Many Syllables? // Liz’s Early Learning Spot
Bug Theme Bingo Cards // Schooling a Monkey
Ten Frame Game More and Less // Sara J Creations
Buggy Partner Cards // Simplified Classroom
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Our kids loves this bug subtraction cards , It it good and effective learning method, and enhance creativity.
great resource. Keep up the good work
Hey very nice information ..
We can use them as a stand-alone math center or pull kids for small group work. I like to laminate the cards so they are more durable and last longer. It also gives children a chance to use dry erase markers, which always makes them extra excited to get down to work!
Thank you
Sanjay,
Great tips! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
What a great resource! Thank you so much!
I think these cards can be used at home also when parents start teaching their children. As these have lot of images, this will keep the child entertained and busy
Subtractions cards looks amazing. Kids love colorful worksheets. Keep up the good work.
Thank you!
We are happy to hear that your kids are enjoying the Bug Subtraction Cards.
Have a great school year!
I like the cards . In the next two weeks I will be introducing Subtraction to my Kindergarteners. The cards will come in handy for follow up exercises.
Hi Paulette,
We are so happy to help! Have fun teaching subtraction to your kiddos!