Why It's Important To Teach Kids About Non-Standard Measurement First

Have you ever watched a child measure their table with toy cars or figure out the length of a room using footsteps? These moments of discovery are at the heart of non-standard measurement—a perfect way to introduce kids to the world of measuring in a way that's playful and relatable. Non-standard measurement provides young learners with a hands-on approach that builds their confidence before they’re ready to tackle rulers, scales, and standard units.
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In this post, we’ll explore the value of non-standard measurement, share fun activities you can try at home or in the classroom, and highlight resources that make learning measurement engaging for kids.

Why Non-Standard Measurement?

For young children, non-standard measurement is an essential first step in understanding the concept of size, length, height, and volume. Using familiar items like blocks, paperclips, or spoons allows children to focus on the process of measuring without worrying about numbers and formal units.
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Non-standard measurement:

• Encourages estimation and comparison skills.
• Develops problem-solving abilities as kids think about what tools to use.
• Makes learning accessible and fun with everyday objects.

Fun Non-Standard Measurement Activities to Try

Measure with What’s Around You:

1.  Pick a familiar item, like a toy car, and measure the lengths of various objects around the hourse or classroom.
   
2.  Challenge kids to find five objects shorter than their favorite stuffed animal or longer than their shoe.

The Tallest Tower Game:

1. Use building blocks to construct towers. Instead of measuring height with a ruler, measure them with pencils, crayons, or even toy animals.
   
2. Encourage kids to compare their towers by asking, "How many pencils tall is yours?"

Relay Race Measurement:

1. Set up a relay race where kids jump, hop, or take giant steps across a space.
   
2. Measure the distance each child travels using footsteps or other creative tools like toy cars. This activity encourages teamwork and keeps kids active while learning.

Check out Non-Standard Measurement Activities and Games: Team Events

This resource includes engaging team-based games that make measurement a collaborative and exciting experience.
They are perfect for family game nights, classroom centers, or group activities.
They encourage children to think creatively while practicing essential math skills.

Non-standard measurement is much more than a stepping stone to standard units—it helps children develop the foundational skills they’ll use throughout their lives. By starting with fun, hands-on activities, you’re building their confidence and setting the stage for deeper learning in math and science. 

​Get a free copy of this measuring activity for extra practice with non-standard measurement.

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Next time you’re at home or in the classroom, grab some everyday objects and start measuring. You’ll be amazed at how much kids can learn when math becomes a game. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a structured lesson, non-standard measurement activities bring fun and education together seamlessly.

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