Apples Subtraction Clip Cards

Help your kindergartener or first grader learn subtraction the fun way with these 16 apple-themed clip cards, a printable PDF featuring simple "take away" problems perfect for hands-on math practice ages 5–7.

📦 What's Included

• 16 subtraction clip cards: Single-digit subtraction problems with differences under 10
• Visual counters: Apple graphics above each equation for counting support
• Card size: 3.5 in. x 5 in.
• 4 pages: Ready to print on cardstock
• Multiple answer choices: Three options per card for self-checking practice

💡 Learning Benefits

• Subtraction fact fluency within 10
• Fine motor development when clipping answers with clothespins
• One-to-one correspondence through visual counter counting
• Independent work skills with self-checking format
• Introduction to "take away" concept with concrete images

🎯 How to Use

• Print and laminate cards for repeated use
• Provide clothespins for children to clip correct answers
• Encourage counting the apple graphics before solving equations
• Use physical counters to demonstrate "taking away" concept
• Offer as math center work after subtraction introduction
• Replace clothespins with dry-erase markers for alternative practice

🍎 Teaching Tip from a Montessori Guide

Subtraction is harder than addition because it's less concrete—we're imagining something disappearing. Start by physically removing apple counters from a pile while saying "7 take away 3" before asking children to work symbolically with the cards. This concrete experience makes the abstract concept meaningful.

🔗 Pair This With

• Apples Addition Clip Cards – Build addition skills before introducing subtraction
• Apples Counting 1-20 – Master counting before moving to operations
• Apples Math Mini Bundle – Complete set with counting, addition, and subtraction

📚 Explore More

• Apples Collection
• Clip Cards Collection
• Math Activities Collection