DISCOVERERS · MEMBERS
Batteries Not Included member activityPantry store math mission
Turn pantry items into a pretend store and make choices within a budget. Predict, test and explain what you discover.
The Sage Dad · Everyday play
Take it to the table.
Included with your paid Batteries Not Included subscription. Verify membership to download.
One low-ink printable activity sheet. Designed for home or classroom use.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Gather a few things.
This sheet, pantry items, pencil, play money or coins if you have them.
One useful question
Which item surprised you on price? What would you swap to save money?
Children practice addition, prices and budgeting.
Practice a budget with a pretend shop.
Pretend prices give addition and budgeting a practical context.
What children will do
Turn pantry items into a pretend store and make choices within a budget.
How to guide the activity
Choose a few pantry items with a grown-up and give them pretend prices. Set a small budget, add the cost of a chosen basket, and work out what is left. Swap one item and explain how that changes the total; no real purchase is needed.
Make it gentler
Use 3 items. Add with fingers or blocks. Focus on under $5.
Add a little stretch
Add tax: add $1 for every $10. Make change from $20.
A good place to stop
Put items back and show your meal plan to someone.