Games Workshops

Our games workshops are based on the games in the book written by Toni Beardon (founder of NRICH) and the Bubbly Maths founder, Caroline Ainslie.

Bringing the Games to Life with Bubbles & Balloons

At Bubbly Maths, we don’t just play the games on paper – we bring them to life using soap bubbles and giant balloons. Estimating, strategy and mathematical thinking become physical, playful and, above all, memorable.

Explore Some of the Games

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Why Play-Based Maths Works

  • Games make abstract ideas like estimating, strategy and probability feel natural and fun
  • Bubbles and balloons add a hands-on science element – children experience the real phenomena behind the play
  • Low floor, high ceiling: every child can join in, and every child can be stretched

Perfect For

  • Maths Week and wet-play or break-time sessions
  • After-school and holiday clubs
  • Family learning sessions and festivals

Get the Book, Support AIMSSEC

Fancy playing the games at home? Let’s Play Mathematically! Aiming High Family Games is available from Tarquin, with 36 games to help develop a love of mathematics using board games and cards.

It’s written by Toni Beardon (founder of NRICH and AIMSSEC) and Caroline Ainslie, and proceeds support AIMSSEC’s work bringing mathematics education to disadvantaged communities.

Buy the Book on Tarquin

Our games workshops work well in SEND schools too. We adjust pace, group size and sensory input to suit your pupils. Find out more on our SEN Workshops page.

What happens at a Bubbly Maths Games Workshop?

Children play maths games brought to life with soap bubbles and giant balloons, experiencing the science of both phenomena while building estimating, strategy and mathematical thinking skills.

What age groups are the games suitable for?

The book is designed for any age, and our Bubbly Maths adaptations work brilliantly for children aged 3 to 11.

Can we buy the games book separately?

Yes – Let’s Play Mathematically! Aiming High Family Games is available to buy from Tarquin. It’s a lovely way to keep the fun going at home, and proceeds support AIMSSEC’s charitable work.

How do we book a Games Workshop?

Get in touch via our contact page with your preferred dates and year groups, and we’ll help you plan the perfect session.

Do your games workshops work in SEND schools?

Yes. We adjust pace, group size, volume and sensory input to suit SEND pupils. Visit our SEN Workshops page to find out more, or tell us about your school when you get in touch.

Ready to bring your maths lessons to life? Get in touch and let’s plan a Games Workshop that’s more fun than a spare period.