1. Draw simple ice cream cones onto your cardboard to create your base, then cover with tape to make a reusable mat.
2. Roll and scoop small balls of playdough to create your “ice cream scoops.”
3. Place the scoops onto each cone, matching numbers or building tall stacks.
4. Talk about what you’re making as you go – flavours, colours and how many scoops each cone has.
5. Step back and admire your ice cream creations, then squish and start again.
   

Extend at home by:

Asking “How many scoops does this cone need?”

Counting each scoop as you add it

Sorting colours to create different “flavour” cones

Comparing sizes – “Which cone has more? Which has less?”

Develops Fine Motor Control – Rolling and scooping playdough into small balls builds hand strength, coordination and control needed for writing and everyday tasks.

Encourages Creativity & Expression – Creating different “flavours” and stacking scoops invites children to explore colours, pretend play and their own ideas.

Builds Early Maths Awareness – Counting scoops, matching numbers and comparing “more or less” introduces early maths concepts in a hands-on, meaningful way.

Supports Focus & Calm – The repetitive motion of rolling and placing scoops helps children slow down, concentrate and regulate.

Explores Problem Solving & Thinking – Figuring out how many scoops to add or how to balance a tall cone encourages thinking, planning and experimenting.

Boosts Confidence & Independence – Completing their own ice cream creations gives children a sense of pride and ownership.

Link to Early Learning Framework:
✓ Learning Through Play
✓ Physical Development
✓ Cognitive Development
✓ Creativity & Imagination
✓ Social-Emotional Skills

Perfect for small groups, centres, or individual exploration Adaptable for different age groups and ability levels