Counting means saying the number words in the same order every time. Let’s count together: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10!
Key idea
The counting numbers always come in the same order. Every number gets a turn. None are skipped.
Why it works
Everyone uses the same order. That is how two people who count the same toys get the same answer. If one number is skipped, every number after it is wrong.
Worked example: What comes next?
What number comes after 7?
- Count from 1: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The next number is 8.
Answer: 8
Common mistake
Skipping or saying a number twice, like “5, 6, 8.” Then the count is off from there on. Check by pointing to the number path as you say each number.
For grown-ups: Count out loud together often: stairs, buttons, grapes at snack time. Listen for skipped numbers, and count again together, slowly.