Quick answer
Counting becomes more meaningful when a child can touch and move real objects. Instead of only reciting numbers, ask the child to place one object at a time while saying one number word.
What you need
- Up to ten cars, blocks, animals, pom poms or other safe counters
- Number cards 1-10
- Optional counting mats from the Starter Pack
How to play
- Begin with a small group, such as three toys.
- Line them up or move each one into a basket.
- Touch or move one item while saying each number.
- Ask for a quantity: “Can you give me three cars?”
- Count again together to check.
Useful prompts
- “Put five blocks in the basket.”
- “Which group has more?”
- “Can you make a group of four?”
- “What happens if we take one away?”
Make it easier
Work with 1-3, place objects in a straight line and move each item into a bowl as it is counted.
Make it harder
Count to ten, compare two groups, add one, take one away or ask the child to build a group without copying yours.
Common counting mix-ups
A child may know the number sequence but count the same object twice, skip objects or stop before the group is finished. Slow down, spread objects apart and use one movement for each number word.
Safety
Use objects that are appropriate for the child and supervise small counters closely. Do not use loose small items with a child who mouths objects.
Related resources
Frequently asked questions
What is one-to-one counting?
It means matching one number word with one object.
What if my child skips a number?
Use fewer objects and count slowly together.
