Bring autumn inspiration to their learning

By: Hayley Dyke • Read time: 3 min • Published: September, 2026

Using a wooden ten-frame tray paired with natural loose parts like pinecones, acorns, and leaves, turns abstract numbers into a hands-on, tactile experience for toddlers and preschoolers.

Here are a few easy ways to play and learn with this setup:

🪵Counting & one-to-one correspondence: Match individual natural items to numbered stones in each section to build counting confidence.

🪵Subitising: Use the ten-frame layout to help little ones visually group numbers and instantly recognise quantities up to 10.

🪵Sorting & comparing: Group items by size, texture, or type (acorns vs. pinecones) while exploring early math vocabulary like more, less, bigger, and smaller.