Numbers go in order, from 0 all the way up. Later numbers are bigger. If one number is missing, can you find it?
Key idea
Count along: the missing number is the one you say in the gap.
Worked example: The missing step
1, 2, 3, ?, 5. What is missing?
- Count: 1, 2, 3 …
- After 3 comes 4.
Answer: 4
For the grown-up: Make a number path on the floor with tape or chalk, 0 to 10. Hop along and say each number. Cover one with a shoe and ask what is underneath. Stop while it is still fun. Then go and play the real-life version.
- Try it at home: Hop on a chalk number path.
- Put number cards in order on the floor.
- Hide a card and guess the missing number.