World Book Day Maths Activity – Number Bonds to 10 Subtraction | EYFS & KS1

Make maths meaningful and memorable with this engaging World Book Day subtraction activity, inspired by the much-loved story The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr.

Perfect for EYFS and KS1, this hands-on maths resource helps children practise number bonds to 10 and develop confidence with subtraction sentences in a fun, story-linked way!

How It Works
Children:

1. Choose a subtraction sentence card (within 10)
2. . Look at the plate of cakes
3. Cross out the correct number of cakes to match the subtraction
4. Count how many are left
5. Say or write the matching number sentence

Example:
10 – 4 = ?
Cross out 4 cakes… how many are left?

Why Children Love It

• Story-themed and engaging
• Visual and practical learning
• Encourages counting and problem-solving
• Makes abstract subtraction concrete

Skills Covered

• Number bonds to 10
• Subtraction within 10
• Counting backwards
• One-to-one correspondence
• Mathematical reasoning
• Vocabulary (subtract, take away, how many left?)

Reusable & Practical
Simply laminate the cards so children can cross out the cakes using a dry wipe pen — wipe clean and use again and again!

Perfect for:

• World Book Day maths activities
• EYFS continuous provision
• KS1 maths lessons
• Small group intervention
• Independent maths stations
• Childminders & home learning

Instant digital download
Print, laminate and use straight away!

Bring maths and storytelling together with this fun, practical subtraction activity — guaranteed to make learning number bonds as irresistible as a plate of cakes!