Longer and Shorter for Kindergarten (Free Measurement Worksheet)

Before children use centimetres or inches, they need to understand what measurement does. Comparing ribbons and measuring objects with blocks lets a child see that length can be described and counted.

Nonstandard measurement uses the same repeated object, such as cubes, paper clips, or craft sticks, as a unit. It makes an abstract idea visible and tactile.

Start With Direct Comparison

Place two ribbons side by side and align one end. Ask which is longer and which is shorter. The shared starting point matters; if the ends are not aligned, children may choose the ribbon that simply begins farther ahead. Use equal-length objects too so children learn the word same.

How to Measure With Cubes

Choose identical cubes. Put the first cube at one end of a pencil and continue in a straight line until the other end. The cubes should touch, with no gaps and no overlaps. Count once and state the measurement: “The pencil is seven cubes long.”

Ask the child to predict before measuring, then check. A prediction is a thoughtful estimate. If needed, review counting activities first.

Free Nonstandard Measurement Worksheet

Page one asks children to circle the longer line in five pairs. Page two shows rows of equal cubes for children to count and record.

Download the Free Measurement Worksheet

Print on A4 paper at 100%. Ask the child to explain how they know which line is longer.

Measurement Activities at Home

Measure a book with paper clips, a table edge with blocks, or a shoe with bottle caps. Use only one type of unit for each comparison. Measuring one object with large blocks and another with tiny beads is not a fair comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use nonstandard units first?

They help children focus on repeating equal units and comparing lengths before learning conventional scales.

Can we use different objects as units?

Yes, but every unit in one measurement should be the same size.

Measure, Compare, and Explain

Ask children to show where they started, count the units, and explain the comparison.

Download the Free Measurement Worksheet