An essential basic skill that children need to master is counting. When children learn how to count, it helps them understand the concepts of numbers and sequencing, and is the foundation of all other basic math skills. Fortunately, counting is a skill that can be improved with practice. If you're looking for fun ways to enrich your child’s counting skills, look no further! Here are ten ideas that are both educational and fun. Children will have a blast practicing their counting skills with these activities.
Play counting games
There are so many games that kids can play to sharpen their counting skills. You can have your child count any items in and around your home, like cars, dots, and jelly beans. These games help kids learn to count quickly and efficiently while having fun.
Make math puzzles
Math puzzles are another fun way to help kids practice their counting skills. You might invite your child to count how many items are in a set, or try something more complex like solving a difficult problem. Math puzzles make for a fun family bonding activity too!
Use flashcards
Flashcards are an old standby for helping kids learn new concepts. You can find counting flashcards online, or make your own that include pictures of objects that correspond to each number. Using flashcards can help kids recognize numbers and improve their counting skills.
Sing counting songs
Counting songs help kids learn to count faster and more efficiently, and they are another great way to make counting fun! Some counting songs include “Five Little Monkeys”, “Ten in the Bed”, and “Ten Green Bottles”. Incorporate counting songs into your daily routine to give your child’s counting a fun boost.
Play counting games on the computer
Screen time can be both fun and educational. Many online counting games can be played on your computer or mobile device with an internet connection. You’ll find a wide variety of games that vary in difficulty level, making them appropriate for both young children who are just learning their numbers and older kids who would benefit from more of a challenge.
Practice number formation with playdough mats
Kids of all ages enjoy playing with playdough! You can make learning counting even more engaging by forming tangible number shapes with manipulatives, like playdough mats.
Play counting board games
There are also plenty of counting board games for all ages, from “Candy Land” to “Chutes and Ladders”. These games provide opportunities to practice counting and an entertaining experience for the whole family!
Create patterns with counting objects in sequence
Many counting activities involve creating patterns with counting objects in sequence. For example, see if your child can identify the pattern if you have three red balls, three yellow balls, and three blue balls? How about five purple pencils followed by four orange erasers? Try these counting activities with kids to help them learn both color recognition and pattern formation skills.
Solve simple math problems
Introducing kids to basic math problems is another great way to help kids practice counting skills and other basic math concepts. You can find a variety of math problems online or in books specifically designed for kids. Choose math problems that are geared toward your child's ability level and gradually increase the difficulty as your little one’s skills improve.
Play with counting blocks
Numbered blocks are another fun tool that can help kids learn how to count. These blocks come in different shapes and sizes, and contain numbers on each side. Kids can use the blocks to build things, count, or compare different quantities
Have kids help you cook
Kids love helping in the kitchen! Invite your little one to help you cook, as this activity provides plenty of opportunities for kids to sharpen their counting skills. For example, ask them to help you measure the ingredients for a recipe, or count how many cookies you bake.
Do a science experiment
Science experiments are fun, hands-on opportunities for kids to learn and practice counting. For example, try counting how many times you can blow up a balloon or how many times you can stir a concoction before it explodes. These counting activities are both fun and educational!
Enriching the development of your child's counting skills doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. The best counting activities are ones that you can find in your everyday life that are fun!
Here at Mrs. Myers’s Learning Lab, our 'Nifty Numbers' Math Program encompasses fun, interactive techniques through our small-group classes. All of our certified teachers utilize a multi-sensory approach that keeps students actively engaged throughout each 60-minute class. Contact us to learn more!
