About Math Space Rescue
Math Space Rescue goes beyond quick sums. Captain Kiko's rocket needs fuel, engine repairs and a route across four planets, and each mission practises a different number skill. Children count fuel cells set out in tens frames, so they learn to see ten at a glance rather than counting one by one. They mend the engine by finding the missing number in sequences that count by 1s, 2s, 5s and 10s, forwards and backwards. Planet Bridges asks the harder question “7 plus what makes 12?”, and the Star Map compares two-digit numbers and counts tens rods and ones. Most answers are typed on a number keypad instead of chosen from a list, so children can't guess. The first wrong answer gets a hint written for that exact question; the second shows the answer and lets the child type it.
What children learn
- Count up to 30 objects using tens frames and recognise groups of ten
- Continue and complete number sequences, including skip counting by 2s, 5s and 10s
- Count backwards by 1s and 2s
- Find unknown numbers in addition and subtraction equations within 20
- Understand two-digit numbers as tens and ones, and compare them
Tips for parents
- When counting fuel, encourage your child to say “ten” for a full frame and count on from there.
- Skip count out loud on the stairs or while clapping: 5, 10, 15, 20.
- For “7 plus what makes 12”, count up on fingers from 7 to 12 together and look at how many fingers went up.
- Use coins, straws in bundles of ten or LEGO rods to make tens and ones at home.
- Free practice is good for five calm minutes on one skill — stop while it's still fun.
Tips for teachers
- Covers Common Core K.CC.B.5 (count to answer “how many?”), 1.OA.D.8 (find the unknown number in an equation), 1.NBT.B.2 and 1.NBT.B.3 (tens and ones; comparing two-digit numbers) and 2.NBT.A.2 (skip counting by 5s and 10s).
- Typed answers make the game useful as a quick check: you can see who knows the answer rather than who guesses well.
- Use Free practice as a differentiated station: each pupil picks the skill they need.
- Ask pupils to explain the hint in their own words after a mission.
Math Space Rescue FAQ
How is this different from Number Adventure?
Number Adventure practises addition and subtraction facts with multiple-choice answers. Math Space Rescue covers the next set of skills — tens frames, skip counting, missing-number equations and place value — and most answers are typed, not picked.
What age is Math Space Rescue for?
Ages 5 to 9. Fuel Count suits kindergarten; Engine Repair and Planet Bridges suit first and second grade; Star Map stretches into second and third grade.
What happens after a wrong answer?
The first wrong answer brings a hint written for that question, such as “Start at 7 and count up to 12”, plus a number line or tens blocks. After a second wrong answer the game shows the answer, and the child types it to move on.
Can my child just practise one skill?
Yes. Free practice gives endless questions on counting, sequences, sums or tens and ones, with no stars, timers or game over.
Is it free and safe?
Yes. There's no sign-up, no chat and no personal information. Stars and finished missions are saved only in your browser.