Elephant Weight: A Math Early Education Toy

Introducing a Unique Toy Inspired by the Story of Cao Chong Weighing the Elephant

Children's toys play a crucial role in their cognitive development, and the Elephant Weight toy takes this to a whole new level. Inspired by the traditional Chinese story "Cao Chong Weighs the Elephant," this toy combines the concept of "equivalent replacement" with math education.

In the story, Cao Chong used the method of "equal replacement" to weigh an elephant by replacing it with many stones. The designers at the Shanghai Art and Design Academy transformed this concept into a tangible learning experience for children. Each small elephant weight in the toy is marked with different weights, including 5g, 10g, 20g, 30g, 40g, 50g, and 100g.

By placing objects on the toy's hull and observing the sinking position, children can determine the weight of the objects using the elephant weights. This hands-on approach allows children to develop a strong sense of weight and numbers, while also enhancing their careful observation skills.

The Elephant Weight toy is designed for children over 3 years old and is made using CNC processing, painting, and manual glue dropping techniques. Its wave body measures 270mm long, 150mm wide, and 130mm high, while the hull is 254mm long, 134mm wide, and 91mm high. The flag pole has a diameter of 10mm and a length of 155mm, with the flag itself measuring 52mm long and 36mm high.

This innovative toy not only provides a fun and engaging learning experience but also promotes the development of essential mathematical skills. It encourages children to explore the concept of weight through play, fostering a deeper understanding of measurements and numerical relationships.

Elephant Weight was developed by the Shanghai Art and Design Academy, a renowned institution known for its commitment to creativity and innovation. This unique toy has been recognized for its excellence and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Toys, Games, and Hobby Products Design category in 2023. This prestigious award acknowledges the toy's well-designed, practical, and innovative nature, meeting professional and industrial requirements.

With Elephant Weight, children can embark on a mathematical journey while having fun, paving the way for a brighter future filled with curiosity and a love for learning.