About Number Bonds
First choose your target total, either 10 or 20. The board fills with numbers, and hidden inside are pairs that add up to your target. Tap one number, then tap another that goes with it to make the total. If the two numbers add up correctly, they are cleared from the board and you score a point. If they do not, they simply unselect so you can try again. Clear every pair to complete the board, and a fresh one appears.
Tips for kids
Start with a number you know well and ask yourself what you need to add to reach the target. For make 10, remember the pairs 1 and 9, 2 and 8, 3 and 7, 4 and 6, and 5 and 5. Once you know these by heart, the game gets really quick.
Why number bonds matter
Number bonds are one of the most useful building blocks in early math. Knowing pairs that make 10 and 20 helps children add, subtract and work with bigger numbers confidently. Practicing them as a game makes them stick far better than copying out sums.
Frequently asked questions
What are number bonds?
Number bonds are pairs of numbers that add up to a certain total. For example, the number bonds to 10 include 6 and 4, 7 and 3, and 8 and 2. Knowing them by heart makes adding and subtracting much faster.
How do you play?
Pick a total like 10 or 20. Then tap two numbers that add up to that total. When you find a correct pair it is cleared. Find all the pairs to finish the board and get a new one.
Is it free?
Yes. Number Bonds is free with no download and no sign-up, and it works on any device in your browser.