Hand them out in turns: first everyone gets one, then one more, and so on.
When there is not enough left for a full round, that is the remainder.
With three children 0, 1 or 2 can be left over, with four children 0, 1, 2 or 3.
Example
- 3, 1
- 2, 0
- 1, 1
- 3, 0
- 6, 2
- 4, 0
- 1, 0
For parents
What does this exercise practice?
Fair sharing prepares division and makes the remainder tangible: not every number can be split evenly.
Common pitfalls
The remainder often just gets given to one child. Fair means it stays put, otherwise one child would have more.
How to practice at home
Count out loud when setting the table or handing out biscuits - and see whether anything is left over.