Children encounter the concept of numbers as early as infancy. As they get older, they will continue to see numerical tasks and activities. Teaching numbers to preschoolers will set them on the right path to learning math.
Numbers are a part of everyday life. That’s why it’s so important to solidify your child’s understanding of basic number concepts from an early age.
It can be challenging to teach your child about numbers for various reasons. For example, some numbers (like 6 and 9) are hard for young children to differentiate from each other.
There are plenty of fun activities and games parents can use to help children learn about numbers. Let’s explore some excellent options.
Make numbers part of your daily activities
When it comes to teaching your little one about numbers, there are plenty of opportunities in everyday life. Is your child surrounded by pillows? Count them aloud as soon as your little one wakes up. Does your child like to help you with household chores? Incorporate numbers into each task. It can be as simple as something like, “Wash your two hands before you help me cook.”
If your child has a variety of toys, ask him or her to count each one as you put them away after playtime.
Invite your child’s friends over to play number games
Have some of your child’s friends over and have them sit in a circle. A fun competition will give them an opportunity to engage in a lively and educational game.
Children tend to learn numbers quickly when they interact with each other.
Sing nursery rhymes
Young children enjoy using rhymes and songs to learn numbers. Teach little ones these songs, and show them how to use their fingers to help them remember numbers.
Here’s a quick list of a few fun songs with rhymes:
- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Once I Caught A Fish Alive
- Ten Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed
- This Old Man, He Played One
- One, Two, Buckle My Shoe
- Ten Little Ducks
- Hickory Dickory Dock
Point to signs and vehicles to practice saying numbers
Any time you’re outside with your child, you’ll find countless opportunities to teach numbers to your child. Look for big signs. Then help your little one identify numbers by sight by pointing to them and saying the name of each number aloud. Encourage your child to do the same. These types of activities will give your child a boost as she or she gets closer to writing numbers.
Write a number and ask your child to draw the quantity
Start by teaching your child how to draw a few simple shapes. They might be as simple as hearts or stars. Next, write a number on a piece of paper, and have your child draw the number of shapes that correspond to the number you just wrote. You can do this activity in reverse. Draw a few shapes on a piece of paper, and ask children to write or say the number of shapes they see..
Use flashcards
There are many games you can play with your child with the use of flashcards. Here’s one activity: label or choose flashcards numbered zero through nine. Jumble the order of the cards, and then have your child you line them up in the proper order.
Read books about numbers
Reading illustrated books is a straightforward way of teaching numbers to kids. A page-by-page approach to learning serves as an excellent foundation for learning about counting
To make the activity more engaging, give your child number books that contain challenges with increased difficulty.
Count using fingers and toes
Another simple approach to teaching kids about numbers is by counting our fingers and toes. Ask them to count all of the fingers on their hands and toes on their feet.
Be creative. Mix up different activities and games that involve counting toes and fingers.
Practice counting by playing connect-the-dots
Playing connect-the-dots games is a great way for children to learn how to count. Draw an incomplete figure on a piece of paper or board. Replace some of the lines with numbered dots and ask your child to complete the drawing.
Use different shapes during each session. Afterward, your child can color in the picture after connecting the dots
When to start teaching numbers
Parents can begin teaching numbers to children as young as twelve months old. Make activities relevant to them by incorporating items all around them. You can start by counting fingers or any other items. Engage kids by making each activity playful and fun.
Here at Akers Academy, we help make your child’s educational journey toward learning numbers fun, creative, and exciting. Contact us today!
