Here’s a fun hands-on addition activity that is perfect for fall. Use real pumpkin seeds to explore number bonds.
Simply put, the term number bonds refers to different ways to create the same sum. For example, you can make 10 by adding 3 and 7, or 6 and 4.
This post was originally published in October 2017, and updated in September 2026.
This activity is perfect for kids who are beginning to explore the concept of addition. The printable mats have two numbers each, and there are a total of 4 mats covering the numbers 5 – 12. I figured that the numbers smaller than 5 didn’t really need their own mat as kids can easily visualize how to add to 2 and 3, etc.
How to Use the Pumpkin Number Bond Mats:
To use the mats, ask your child to find the number at the top of the pumpkin and then count out that many seeds. Now divide the seeds into two groups. For example, if you have 6 seeds, you can divide them into 2 and 4. Write that addition sentence under the pumpkin. 2 + 4 = 6. Then try another way to divide them! How about 1 + 5? Or 3 + 3?
I laminated our mats so that we can write in dry erase marker and wipe them clean.
My kindergartner approved! He is so happy to be learning big kid stuff, like addition.
Ready to download a copy? Click below, and the PDF file will open for you to print.
CLICK HERE: Pumpkin Number Bond Mats
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