St. Patrick’s Day Math and Science

St. Patrick’s day is such a fun holiday to celebrate in the classroom because there are some very different opportunities for exploration than we see with other holidays. Because of this, I’ve included some science activities – which means that this is a math and science center for Preschool St. Patrick’s Day! Let’s take a look at some of these materials.

Shamrock Observations – This set is designed to help children focus on small details, which is perfect when it comes to shamrocks and finding that elusive 4-leaf clover. There are images of a variety of different shamrocks, and then zoomed in images of the same shamrocks so that children can see if they can match these. There are also two paint-chip color gradients, children can see what shades of green show up in these images. This is an easy activity to extend too – head outside and find some clovers, then use the paint-chips to do the same with your real shamrocks.

Plastic Coins – There are so many things to use these for, my favorites are simple sorting and patterning. I’ve also had children stack them (great for fine motor, and you can predict how many each child can stack), and hide them for scavenger hunts. I found these at the Dollar Tree, but here’s a similar bulk set (affiliate link).

St. Patrick’s Day Memory – Memory is a classic game for a reason. It promotes memory (obviously), spatial awareness, attention to detail, and basic matching. This is a printable set with a variety of shamrocks, because let’s face it sometimes you just need to be able to print a really easy activity. Memory is one of my favorites because children are familiar with it, so they can often use it independently.

Juggling Leprechauns Counting – How cute are these little leprechauns?! Each one has a number on it’s leg, and the set includes a sheet of gold coins that children can count to match the number. You could also put out some of those plastic coins to count with these.

St. Patrick’s Day Numbers – I just flipping love these numbers! Being able to look right at the numeral, count the objects, and match them with a 10-frame creates so many connections! You can use these with clothespins (clipping a clothespin on each shamrock) if you want to add a little fine motor work too.

Making Predictions with Leprechaun Traps – I’ll preface this one by saying that it isn’t an activity you can print and put out in your centers, this one takes a little extra planning and group discussion. The class get’s a note from a leprechaun encouraging them to try and make a trap that will catch him. Each day they follow the notes and make predictions about what will happen next. This gets them thinking about cause and effect, and using some problem solving skills. I love that it takes the leprechaun trap idea a step further and introduces the prediction piece.

What are you most excited to try out in your classroom?