Greedy Pig Math Game

Greedy Pig Maths Game: A Fun Way to Learn Counting and Strategy

If you’ve ever thought “I want to homeschool but don’t know where to start,” the easiest place to begin is with learning through play. Kids don’t need worksheets to practise number skills... one of the best way to practise these skills is through games!

One of our most recent favourites is the Greedy Pig Maths Game. It’s quick to set up, works for multiple ages, and sneakily teaches important skills like counting, number recognition, and even problem-solving.

What You Need

• 🎲 Dice or number cards

• 🟢 Counters (buttons, blocks, pebbles, or coins)

• ✍️ Paper and pen (optional for scorekeeping)

How to Play

• Place all counters in a pile. Each player takes turns rolling a dice and collects that many counters.

• After each roll, players must decide: will they bank their counters (keep them safe) or roll again to try for more?

• If a player rolls the “greedy number” (we usually choose 6), they lose all the counters they collected during that turn.

• Play until a set number of rounds are finished. Then count everyone’s counters to see who collected the most!

Learning Links

This game is packed with learning opportunities:

• 🔢 Maths: Counting, number recognition, and adding up totals.

• 🧠 Problem Solving: Making decisions about risk vs reward.

• 🤝 Social Skills: Taking turns, managing emotions, and celebrating wins (or losses!).

Why It Works So Well for Homeschooling

The Greedy Pig Game is more than just a maths activity - it’s a chance to weave learning into everyday life. It requires almost no preparation, uses materials you already have, and adapts easily for different ages.

For younger kids, focus on simple counting and recognising dice patterns. For older kids, extend the learning by asking them to add up totals or keep score with tally marks.

And best of all? Kids don’t even realise they’re learning because they’re too busy having fun. My daughter started counting and making patterns without any instruction from me! Which is all great math learning ;)

Want More Activities Like This?

This activity is just one of the ready-to-go ideas from my Wild Ones Storytime Membership. Each fortnight, members receive:

• A carefully chosen children’s book 📚

• 5–6 fun, hands-on activities across maths, English, science, arts, and more 🎨

• A clear resource list and learning links 🔗

• A playful, flexible approach to home education that fits your family

👉 Click here to learn more and join the Storytime Membership