Tell a math joke
Green highlight

Write and tell a short math joke to friends or family, practicing wordplay and timing while making numbers fun and boosting confidence in public speaking.

Orange shooting star
Download Guide
Collect Badge
Background blob
Challenge Image
Table of contents

Step-by-step guide to tell a math joke

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

10 maths jokes that'll make 'sum' of you laugh

What you need
Colouring materials (crayons markers pencils), eraser, mirror or stuffed toy (optional), paper, pencil

Step 1

Sit at a table with your paper and pencil ready.

Step 2

Pick one math topic you like such as numbers shapes or addition.

Step 3

Write down two math words that sound fun or could make a funny pun.

Step 4

Choose a joke style like a question-and-answer one-liner or a knock-knock.

Step 5

Write the setup sentence for your joke on the paper.

Step 6

Write the punchline that plays on the math word you picked.

Step 7

Draw a small face or note beside the punchline to remind you when to pause or smile.

Step 8

Practice saying the joke aloud three times, pausing before the punchline each time.

Step 9

Try your joke once in the mirror or to a stuffed toy to hear how it sounds.

Step 10

Tell your joke to a friend or family member and watch their reaction.

Step 11

If the joke needs fixing change one word and try telling it again.

Step 12

Share your finished joke and how it went on DIY.org

Final steps

You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!

Complete & Share
Challenge badge placeholder

Help!?

If we don't have paper and a pencil, what can we use to write our two math words and jokes?

Use a whiteboard and dry-erase marker or a tablet notes app to write the two math words, the setup sentence, and the punchline so you can erase and rewrite while you practice.

My punchline falls flat or I forget to pause—what should I try?

Follow the instructions to draw the small face beside the punchline as a pause/smile cue, practice saying the joke aloud three times and try it to a stuffed toy or mirror, and if needed change one word as the instructions say to fix the joke.

How can I adapt this activity for younger or older children?

For younger kids, pick simple math topics like numbers and use a stuffed toy and big drawn face to practice the setup and punchline, while older kids can choose clever math wordplay, experiment with different joke styles, and record their performance to share on DIY.org.

How can we extend or personalize the joke activity after we finish?

Turn your joke into a short comic or recorded video with drawings or props, collect feedback when you tell it to a friend or family member, change one word if needed, and then share the final version on DIY.org.

Watch videos on how to tell a math joke

Here at SafeTube, we're on a mission to create a safer and more delightful internet. 😊

Cheesy Math Jokes That'll Make "Sum" of Your Students LOL

3 Videos

Facts about math humor and public speaking for kids

šŸ”¢ Classic math joke: ā€œWhy was six afraid of seven? Because 7 8 (ate) 9ā€ — number wordplay for the win!

šŸŽ¤ Great joke timing often comes from a tiny pause before the punchline to build surprise.

🧠 Laughing while learning lowers stress and helps the brain form stronger memories.

šŸ¤“ Math jokes often use puns or number tricks to make concepts stick in your memory.

šŸ˜‚ Puns are one of the oldest types of humor — ancient texts contain wordplay that made people laugh.

How do I help my child write and tell a short math joke to friends or family?

To run the activity, start by brainstorming simple math topics—numbers, shapes, or operations. Help your child pick one idea and form a short setup and one-line punchline. Write the joke on a card, then practice aloud focusing on timing, pauses before the punchline, and facial expression. Rehearse in front of a mirror or a small family audience, give positive feedback, and let them tweak the joke until they feel confident.

What materials do I need to write and tell a math joke with my child?

Basic supplies include paper and pencil for drafting, index cards or a small notebook for the final joke, and a timer or phone to practice pacing. Optional items: props, simple math flashcards, a mirror for rehearsing expressions, and a recording device to play back performances. Create a quiet practice space and a small willing audience—most homes already have everything you need.

What ages is this math-joke activity suitable for?

This activity suits ages 4–14 with simple adaptations. Preschool (4–6): very short counting or number jokes with adult help. Early elementary (6–9): one-line puns and timing practice. Upper elementary to middle school (9–14): more clever wordplay, multi-line setups, and peer performances to build confidence. Supervise younger children, keep humor kind and age-appropriate, and adapt complexity for each child.

What are the benefits of writing and telling math jokes with children?

Benefits include boosting number familiarity, vocabulary, creativity, and reducing math anxiety by making numbers fun. Performing jokes builds public speaking skills—timing, projection, and confidence—plus social skills from sharing with others. It’s low-cost, low-stress practice that encourages wordplay and problem-solving. Variations: illustrated joke cards, joke swap, or a family ā€˜math open-mic.’ Keep jokes positive and avoid targeting classmates.
DIY Yeti Character
Join Frame
Flying Text Box

One subscription, many ways to play and learn.

Try for free

Only $6.99 after trial. No credit card required

Tell a math joke. Activities for Kids.