When we count things, we touch each one and say one number. One touch, one number. No skipping and no touching twice!
Key idea
Touch each thing once and say one number for it.
Worked example: Counting buttons
Three buttons sit on the table. Count them.
- Touch the first button: 1.
- Touch the next: 2.
- Touch the last: 3.
Answer: 3 buttons
For the grown-up: Move each thing as you count it, from one pile to another, or drop it in a cup. Moving makes it easy to see what is counted. Gently guide your child’s finger at first. Keep screen time short: two or three problems, then play.
- Try it at home: Count spoons as you set the table.
- Drop blocks into a box: one, two, three …
- Count crackers onto a plate.