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Map reading skills for children

By OS Team

Published on 1 min read

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Make maps for kids fun

Find out why you should get maps for kids and encourage them to improve their map reading skills. These guides will show you how to make map reading for kids of all ages both fun and educational.

Instil a love of the outdoors that will last a lifetime. We’ve collected some of our top ideas and inspiration for getting children of all ages interested in using maps to understand the environment around them. Ready to move to the next stage? Check out the Map reading – beginner’s guides.

Help kids learn more about the outdoors and become a map reading expert with 30% off the OS Kids Adventure Book. Packed full of fun puzzles and challenges to keep them entertained for hours.

Child holding a map riding on parents shoulders

Teaching younger children about maps

Understanding how places relate to each other is a vital skill for children. Having a good spatial awareness helps them with many other aspects of education, from maths to creativity.

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Sheun the sheep and Bitzer

Shaun the Sheep’s Countryside Code

With the help of Shaun the Sheep, find out more about how you can enjoy the outdoors responsibly and protect it for us all to enjoy for years to come.

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Close up of a person using a compass with a map

Teacher training: How to make map skills fun

Children are fascinated by maps. But it still can be a challenge for teachers to make learning fun. Here’s top tips from Outdoor Activities Instructor Adrian Hall.

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A teacher showing a child a map

Top tips to get children using paper maps

Shell Grayson of Get Out With The Kids with her top tips to get children using paper maps while spending more time engaging with the outdoors.

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A hill drawn in chalk on a blackboard

Ordnance Survey educational resources

Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, take a look at our Education Resources for project ideas and teaching aids, plus find games to play in our fun MapZone area.

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Map reading guide leaflet image

Get a free Map reading guide

Download a free map reading guide to read or print at home

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By OS Team

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