Unifix Cubes

• Unifix cubes are small cubes that can be attached to one another to form columns (they are only attachable on two sides). They come in different colors. Kids can learn with them by using them to make patterns, representations of numbers (developing number sense) and graphs; to help with addition and subtraction by using cubes to represent numbers, and to count, skip count and sort.
  
  

Base 10 Blocks

• Base 10 blocks are a special type of block that helps kids learn place value. The blocks are one color (often orange or blue) and are made of one centimeter cubes. Single cubes represent ones, columns of 10 attached cubes represent tens, columns of 100 represent hundreds and large columns of 1,000 represent thousands. Making numbers from these blocks (such as using two columns and four single cubes to make 24) helps students understand how numbers work. Students can also use Base 10 blocks to add and subtract two- and three-digit numbers.
  
  

Cards

• Index cards and playing cards are versatile learning tools. Kids can use playing cards to learn numerals (by matching them) or to play addition and multiplication games, such as a version of gin rummy in which players try to make 10 or 20 instead of matches. Index cards can be made into flashcards for any subject, such as math facts, state capitals, word definitions, social studies and science facts, or sight words, words that need to recognized "on sight." Kids can make a second set of flashcards and then play Memory to help practice facts as well.
  
  

Art Supplies

• Writing and drawing are integral to learning. Kids need paper, pencils and crayons, at least, to learn how to organize their thoughts. Paper and pencils also will help children learn to do handwriting, write sentences and then paragraphs, stories and essays, complete math problems, make diagrams, develop graphs and remember their thoughts. Crayons (and/or markers) will help kids record their thoughts in a different way, highlight information and add details to diagrams, graphs and drawings.
  
  

Computers

• Computers are an amazing learning tool. They allow kids (and adults) to find information about any topic; read stories, write stories, articles and letters; contact people all over the world; see pictures and video of the world around them; and play learning games.
  
  

Books

• Before computers, books were the learning tool that kids used to learn about the world around them. Books still remain the primary way children learn to read, as well as an effective way to teach them about all subjects. Books are especially helpful for children to learn as references as typing website addresses can still be challenging for them.