20 Counting Activities for Kids

Explore these exciting counting activities designed to help children grasp the concepts of numbers and learning in fun and interactive ways.

Numbers are the building blocks of mathematics, and mastering them is a crucial milestone in a child’s development. However, teaching numbers and counting can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

Fortunately, there are countless engaging and creative activities that make learning numbers a joyful experience for children.

Be sure to check out our other fun family-friendly kid activities and crafts!

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Whether you’re a parent, teacher or caregiver, these activities are perfect for children of various ages and skill levels.

Counting for Preschoolers

Counting is a fundamental skill for preschoolers that lays the groundwork for their mathematical understanding and problem-solving abilities.

Beyond the numerical aspect, mastering counting fosters cognitive development by enhancing memory, attention, and logical reasoning.

It also cultivates essential life skills such as organization and time management.

Plus, counting is deeply integrated into daily activities and routines, from understanding quantities during playtime to following instructions in structured learning environments.

Counting PuzzlesPlay Dough Numbers 1-20 Counting ActivitiesSilly Monster Numbers 1-20 Counting ActivitiesApple Theme Numbers 1-20 Counting Activities

 

By grasping counting concepts early on, preschoolers develop confidence in their abilities and build a strong foundation for future academic success in mathematics and beyond.

Counting Activities for Kids

From simple games that introduce basic numerals to hands-on activities that reinforce counting principles, each idea is crafted to ignite curiosity and foster a love for math.

By incorporating playfulness and creativity into the learning process, children can develop a strong foundation in numeracy while having a blast along the way.

So, let’s embark on this adventure together and discover how we can turn learning numbers into an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, exploration, and discovery!

Here are 20 engaging numbers and counting activities for kids:

Number Hunt: Hide numeral cards around the house or classroom and have children find them. As they discover each number, they can say it aloud or match it to a corresponding set of objects.

For a more contained activity, make this I Spy Numbers Tray.

Melissa & Doug Self-Correcting Wooden Number Puzzles With Storage Box (40 pcs)Counting Ladybugs – Montessori Wooden Counting ToyAitbay Cool Math Game – Preschoolers Frog Balance Counting ToyCounting Animals Color Sorting Matching Games

 

Counting with Blocks: Use colorful building blocks to teach counting. Encourage children to stack blocks while counting aloud, reinforcing both number recognition and basic addition skills.

Number Bingo: Use Bingo cards with numbers and call out random numbers for children to mark off on their cards. This game helps reinforce number recognition in a fun, competitive way.

Counting with Nature: Take children on a nature walk and have them count objects they find, such as leaves, rocks or flowers. This activity connects counting with real-world objects and enhances observational skills.

Number Puzzles: Provide simple number puzzles where children arrange pieces in numerical order. This hands-on activity reinforces number sequencing and problem-solving skills.

Counting Songs and Rhymes: Engage children by singing songs or reciting rhymes that incorporate counting, like “Five Little Ducks” or “Ten in the Bed.” The rhythm and melody of music enhance the learning experience, making it both enjoyable and memorable.

Number Line Jump: Create a number line on the floor using tape or chalk. Call out a number, and children have to jump to that number on the line. This activity reinforces number order and gross motor skills.

The Learning Journey: Match It! – Counting – 30 Piece Self-Correcting Number & Learn to Count PuzzleLearning Resources Snap-n-Learn Counting Cows Toy SetLearning Resources Baby Bear CountersLearning Resources MathLink Cubes – Set of 100 Cubes

 

Counting Books: Read counting books with colorful illustrations and ask children to count the objects on each page. Discuss the numbers and encourage children to point to them as they count.

Number Bingo Dab: Instead of marking off numbers on a Bingo card with a pen, use bingo dabbers – also called do-a-dot markers for kids. Children love the colorful mess-free experience while learning to identify numbers.

Counting with Dice: Roll dice and have children count the dots on each die. This activity introduces basic addition skills and encourages quick counting.

Number Relay Race: Divide children into teams and set up a relay race where they have to collect numbered objects and place them in order. This active game promotes teamwork and number recognition.

Counting with Playdough: Use playdough to create sets of objects, such as animals or shapes, and have children count them. Manipulating playdough adds a tactile element to counting. Learn about the other benefits of playdough, too!

Number Fishing: Create a fishing game where children “catch” fish with numbers written on them. They can then match the numbers to a corresponding set of objects or numerals.

Rainbow Counting Bears with Matching Sorting CupsLearning Resources Smart Counting CookiesIce Cream Color Sorting Toys for Toddlers, Montessori Counting Pretend Play ToysMagnetic Color & Number Maze

 

Counting with Food: Use snacks like cereal or fruit pieces for counting activities. Children can group the items into sets and count them before enjoying a tasty treat.

Number Beanbag Toss: Set up numbered targets on the floor and have children toss beanbags onto them. As they retrieve the beanbags, they can call out the numbers they landed on.

Counting with Technology: Utilize educational apps or online games that focus on numbers and counting. Interactive digital activities can complement traditional learning methods.

Number Memory Game: Create a memory game with pairs of cards featuring numerals and corresponding sets of objects. Children take turns flipping cards over and matching numbers with their quantities.

Counting in Different Languages: Introduce counting in different languages to broaden children’s cultural awareness while reinforcing numerical concepts.

Number Art: Provide materials for children to create art using numbers. They can paint or draw numerals, then count and decorate objects according to the numbers they represent.

Number Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items for children to find and count within a designated area. This activity encourages exploration, observation and counting skills. Have fun with this Free Nature Scavenger Hunt or Nature Bingo! for Kids Printable.

These activities make learning numbers and counting a dynamic and enjoyable experience for children, laying a strong foundation for further mathematical development.

More Counting Activities for Kids

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• Learning to Count with Cars
• Independent Math Fun and Exploration
• Learn Your Numbers: A Twist on Chutes and Ladders Board Game
• Counting Tubes