MathBot Academy

Subtraction Games for Kids

Subtraction practice for children aged 5–9 across KS1 / KS2.

This page supports fluency-building, confidence checks, and progression into mixed-maths missions.

Curriculum focus: counting back, difference, and formal subtraction methods.
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What to practise

  • Use short daily drills to build automatic retrieval.
  • Mix untimed explanation rounds with faster accuracy rounds.
  • Track weak patterns and revisit them every 2–3 days.

Teaching tips

  • Teach subtraction as both take-away and difference.
  • Use number lines for confidence before formal written methods.
  • Practise inverse checks with addition to improve accuracy.

How to work it out

Step-by-step worked examples to talk through together.

13 − 5 = ?

  1. 1 Start at 13 on a number line
  2. 2 Count back 5 steps
  3. 3 Land on 8 — the answer is 8

52 − 27 = ?

  1. 1 Subtract the ones: 12 − 7 = 5 (exchange needed)
  2. 2 Subtract the tens: 40 − 20 = 20
  3. 3 Combine: 25

Quick tips for parents & teachers

  • Use a number line until the child is confident enough to work mentally.
  • Link subtraction to addition — "What do I add to 27 to reach 52?"
  • Keep sessions short and reward accuracy before pushing for speed.

Related pages

Continue with connected practice routes.

Addition Missing Number Brackets Division Multiplication Number Bonds Remainders Square Roots Squares Times Tables

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should we practise this topic?

Most learners improve with 10–15 minutes on most school days.

Should we focus only on weak questions?

Prioritise weak areas, but keep a mix of secure questions to maintain confidence.

How do we know when to move on?

Move on when speed and accuracy are both stable across multiple sessions.