Exploring STEAM Through Maths

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Did you know that playful moments with sand and water can build strong foundations in maths and more? At Edx Education, we believe every child has the potential to become a confident, curious learner and that begins through play-based STEAM learning from the earliest years. What is STEAM it stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics a holistic approach to education that fosters problem solving, creativity, and exploration. For young children, especially in the early years and primary years, STEAM activities should be hands on, engaging, and joyful. That’s why simple resources like a sand and water tray, combined with high quality learning accessories, are perfect for helping children play, learn, and grow.

Why Introduce STEAM in Early Childhood?

When children explore, test, and tinker, they’re building key skills for life. With STEAM-based activities, young learners:

  • Develop early maths concepts such as measuring, comparing, and sorting

  • Understand scientific ideas like floating, sinking, volume, and motion

  • Express creativity through patterns, design, and problem-solving

  • Practice language and communication through guided and open-ended play

  • Strengthen motor skills and coordination

STEAM supports whole-child development and encourages children to ask questions, make connections, and build a love of learning.

Playful STEAM Maths Activities Using Sand & Water Trays

Here are three easy and engaging ideas using Edx Education’s toys and accessories ideal for home or classroom learning.

1. Pour & Measure Like a Scientist

You’ll need:

  • Edx Education Measuring Jugs, Funnels, Scoops, Beakers

  • Water (add colour for extra fun!) or dry sand

Encourage your child to fill and pour from different containers. Which jug holds more? How many scoops fill the large beaker? They can compare volumes, make predictions, and develop mathematical vocabulary like “full”, “half”, and “more than”.

Learning focus:

  • Measurement & estimation

  • Logical thinking

  • Sensory exploration

2. Sink or Float? A Discovery Game

You’ll need:

  • Edx Education Rainbow Pebbles®, Counting Bears, or Number Rods

  • A water tray or tub

  • Optional: plastic boats or floating trays

Invite children to test which toys float or sink and why. Sort objects by size, colour, or whether they float. Can they balance the same number of toys on each side of a floating tray? This activity blends science, maths, and reasoning.

Learning focus:

  • Scientific investigation

  • Sorting, comparing, counting

  • Cause and effect

3. Pattern & Shape Play in the Sand

You’ll need:

  • Edx Education Pattern Blocks, Rainbow Pebbles®, or sand moulds

  • A sand tray (wet or dry)

  • Optional: shape stencils

Let children create beautiful repeating patterns in the sand using shapes and pebbles. Start with simple AB patterns (e.g., red, blue, red, blue) and progress to more complex sequences. Discuss symmetry and encourage children to create their own designs.

Learning focus:

  • Pattern recognition & sequencing

  • Fine motor skills

  • Early geometry & spatial awareness

Edx Education: Learning Through Play, Globally

For over 25 years, Edx Education has supported families and educators across more than 110 countries with innovative, open ended learning tools that make education playful and accessible. From sensory toys to maths manipulatives, every product is designed to inspire young minds and support key developmental areas.

We also offer free downloadable resources and ideas to help guide your child’s learning journey at home or in the classroom. Plus, don’t miss our global podcast, Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education, where we share expert insights and practical tips for raising confident, happy learners.

Join the STEAM Learning Adventure

STEAM learning doesn’t require high-tech equipmentjust imagination, curiosity, and the right tools. Whether at home, in a nursery, or in a classroom, your child can explore maths, science, and creativity through playful experiences every day.

Explore our full range of educational toys and accessories at www.edxeducation.com, and discover how learning through play helps children thrive.

Let’s Play, Learn & Create—Together.