Six open-ended recording prompts for children to capture maths that matters in their play. Use alongside real objects, games and investigations, particularly in Reception. Children choose what to record and how to show it.

Offer a reason to record

A child may want to remember a collection, keep a score, save a pattern before tidying up or share a discovery. Offer a slip at that moment: “Would you like a way to remember this?” Put a few choices beside pencils and clipboards. Children can also choose plain paper or continue their play without recording.

Welcome children’s own marks

Drawings, dots, lines, symbols, numerals and words can all carry mathematical meaning. Ask the child what their marks mean before interpreting them. Read the heading aloud if needed. Offer numeral references when useful, while keeping attention on the mathematical idea rather than neatness or correct formation.

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