The other day, I caught my little man counting again – this time, it was the kitchen spoons. Every nook and cranny of our home has become a delightful counting adventure for him.
It’s moments like these when I realize how innately curious our tiny preschool learners are.
Seeing his sparkling eyes every time he gets a count right has inspired me to gather some stellar counting math activities specifically for preschoolers.
Why Practice Counting With Preschoolers?
Counting games are an important part of early math education because they help preschoolers develop a number sense, which is the foundation for all future math learning.
Counting games help preschoolers learn the names of numbers, the counting sequence, and one-to-one correspondence. They also help preschoolers develop their understanding of quantity and spatial relationships.
A study by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) found that children who participated in counting games in preschool were more likely to score higher on math assessments in kindergarten. The study also found that children who played counting games were more likely to have a positive attitude toward math.
If you need even more reasons to help your little ones with counting and math activities, let’s see what a leading expert in early childhood development thinks.
Dr. Deborah Stipek, a professor of education at Stanford University, says that “math is a language that children need to learn early on.” She believes that math games are a fun and effective way to help children learn math.
As you can see, math and counting will play a vital role in the future success of your little ones. You can use these activities, along with my favorite math STEM activities for kids to help your little ones build confidence in math and learning.
This is why I put together some of my favorite counting games for preschoolers- to help you and your little learners get the most out of your time while saving you lots of time in the process!
How I Chose These Counting Activities
I already have a big set of math activities for kids with an easy filtering system, but I wanted to put together a list of my favorite counting math activities for preschoolers. When selecting my favorite math counting games for preschoolers, I delved deep into top activity sites, hunting for the best of the best.
My criteria?
Games that last a good 20 minutes, pack in heaps of fun, and—bonus points!—get those little legs and arms moving. But that’s not all! Every game on my list underwent the ultimate test: playtime with my very own son.
If it got his seal of approval, brimming with giggles and excitement, I knew it was a keeper. Dive in and discover activities that are genuinely tried, tested, and toddler-approved!
15 Of My Favorite Counting Math Activities For Preschoolers
Delving into the world of preschool math can be both fun and foundational.
Here, I’ve curated a list of 15 counting games that beautifully blend excitement with education, laying the groundwork for budding mathematicians. Let’s ignite that passion for numbers in our little ones!
1. Putt-Putt Math Game
Looking for a fun way to fuse math practice and outdoor activity? The Putt-Putt Math Game is your answer! Inspired by mini-golf, this game not only cultivates your child’s math skills but also ensures plenty of giggles and outdoor fun.
With simple tools and an easy setup, transform your backyard into a mathematical playground. As they aim for holes, they’ll aim for mastery in math.
Experience learning through play, fostering a love for both golf and numbers!
- Materials Needed: Golf ball, toy golf club, paper, pencil, and DIY golf holes.
- Duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes.
- Ideal Age: Children aged 5-10 years.
- Math Discipline: Arithmetic.
- Math Skill Focus: Enhances quick mental calculations, number recognition, and improves fine motor skills through golf swings.
2. Football Counting Game
Have you ever dreamt of combining gridiron fun with some math love? The Football Counting Game does just that! It’s a delightful activity that marries the thrill of football with the joys of number learning.
Just picture your little ones throwing, counting, and scoring, all while soaking in foundational math skills. An absolute touchdown for both fun and learning!
- Materials Needed: Footballs (or bean bags), numbered paper plates, tape.
- Duration: 15-30 minutes per game.
- Ideal Age: 3 to 6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Basic Arithmetic.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances number recognition, counting, and simple addition, fostering a love for math through play.
3. Lydaz Montessori Math Manipulatives Toys
Dive into the charming world of Lydaz Montessori Math Manipulatives. Designed to enthrall, this toy set merges playful exploration with foundational math skills.
No more mundane number drills; these toys transform learning into a delightful, hands-on adventure. Perfect for those little fingers eager to grasp, count, and sort. Ready to see those bright eyes shine even brighter?
This is a great game to get young minds working, and you can take a look at my other simple math activities for preschoolers for a longer list of games that are easy to set up for parents.
- Materials Needed: Montessori wooden number blocks, counting rods, and activity cards.
- Duration: 20-40 minutes per session.
- Ideal Age: 3 to 6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Basic Arithmetic and Number Recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances early numeracy, counting accuracy, and tactile learning, fostering a solid foundation in math from the start.
4. Lady Bug Busy Bag
Finding delightful, meaningful activities is a blessing in the hustle of our little one’s growing world. Our Lady Bug Busy Bag promises sweet moments of learning mixed with fun.
This vibrant, tactile journey revolves around our ever-curious ladybugs, giving tiny fingers the pleasure of counting and sorting. Best of all?
This gem easily slides into daily routines, fostering independent play and math skills, all while staying true to the joy and wonder of childhood. Perfect for mamas seeking the magic in everyday learning!
- Materials Needed: Red and black craft foam, googly eyes, clothespins.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes of engaging activity.
- Ideal Age: 3-5 years, with curiosity and tiny fingers ready to explore.
- Math Discipline: Early numeracy and counting basics.
- Math Skills Focus: Fosters an understanding of number recognition, one-to-one correspondence, and foundational counting skills in a playful manner.
5. Race To Fill The Cup
There’s no better blend of fun and education than the “Race To Fill The Cup” activity! A delightfully engaging game, it encourages our little ones to combine counting with the thrill of competition. This is a great spring math activity for preschoolers because you can modify it to fit Valentine’s day or as the weather begins to warm up outside!
Inspired by the simplicity of mini erasers, this game can quickly become a household favorite. What a fabulous way to add some joyous learning into your child’s day while nurturing their burgeoning math skills!
- Materials Needed: Mini erasers, dice, and two clear cups.
- Duration: About 15-20 minutes.
- Ideal Age: Perfect for children aged 3 to 6 years.
- Math Discipline: Counting and basic arithmetic.
- Math Skills Focus: Fosters a keen sense of number recognition, addition based on dice rolls, and enhances comparative skills in young minds.
6. Snowman Hole Punch Counting Game
In the heart of winter, when the chilly breeze dances with falling snowflakes, why not invite some heartwarming educational fun indoors?
The Snowman Hole Punch Counting Game is a delightful combination of crafting and learning, perfect for tiny hands and curious minds. As your child adorns each snowman with hole-punched ‘buttons,’ they subconsciously delve into counting and one-to-one correspondence.
Wrapped in the whimsy of winter wonder, this activity is more than just play; it’s a journey through the magical world of numbers! If you and your little ones are looking for even more winter-themed games, then check out my curated list of winter math activities for preschoolers here.
- Materials Needed: Printable snowman cards, hole punch, and markers.
- Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 3-6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Counting and Number Recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances a child’s ability to recognize, count, and correlate numbers with tangible items, fostering early arithmetic understanding.
7. FLMRIOY Counting Dinosaurs Matching Game
Dive into a delightful counting adventure with the FLMRIOY Counting Dinosaurs Matching Game! Your kiddos will be captivated as they match dinos and sharpen their math skills.
It’s not just about counting; it’s about giggles, bonding, and fostering a love for learning.
Perfect for sunny afternoons or indoor playdates, this game promises endless fun and foundational math insights!
- Materials Needed: FLMRIOY Counting Dinosaurs cards and game set.
- Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes per game round.
- Ideal Age: Best for children aged 3 to 6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Early arithmetic and counting.
- Math Skills Focus: Engages children in foundational number recognition, counting, and one-to-one correspondence in an enjoyable and interactive setting.
8. Math Twister!
Ready to add some energetic fun to your kiddo’s math learning? Say hello to Math Twister! This game is a delightful fusion of the classic Twister and math drills.
Just like the giggles and tumbles during Twister, Math Twister promises equal amounts of fun while enhancing math skills. Picture those tiny toes and fingers landing on numbers and mathematical symbols, and you’ll know why it’s a win-win.
Your living room is about to get transformed into an educational playground, and trust me, your kids won’t even realize they’re learning! This is definitely one of my favorite easy math activities for preschoolers because it gets my little one up and moving, and we can laugh and get a workout at the same time!
- Materials Needed: Twister game mat and spin board, number & math symbol cards.
- Activity Duration: 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 6-10 years old.
- Math Discipline: Arithmetic basics.
- Math Skills Focus: Encourages number recognition, basic mathematical operations, and swift problem-solving in a dynamic setting.
9. Ocean Time Counting Game
Dive into a world of fun and learning with the enchanting Ocean Time Counting Game! Melding the magic of the deep blue with early math skills, this delightful activity from Pre-K Pages promises to engage little ones while building a foundation for counting.
Beautifully crafted for curious young minds, it’s the perfect splash of educational fun every kiddo needs. If the ocean waves could count, they’d absolutely adore this!
- Materials Needed: Ocean-themed printables, mini erasers or other small counters, and dice.
- Duration: 15-20 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 3-5 years old.
- Math Discipline: Counting and number recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Cultivates a child’s foundational skills in counting, numeral identification, and one-to-one correspondence in an engaging manner.
10. Puddle Jump Math Game
Whip up some energetic fun while boosting your kiddo’s math skills with the Puddle Jump Math Game. Perfect for those giggly moments outdoors, this delightful activity transforms rainy days into enriching math adventures.
As they hop between puddles, kids naturally engage their math muscles, enhancing their understanding. Just like military training, it’s all about mixing discipline with a touch of spirited spontaneity.
- Materials Needed: Chalk, outdoor space, and a rainy day (or make your own puddles!)
- Duration: 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 4-8 years.
- Math Discipline: Arithmetic and Number Recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances counting, addition, subtraction, and number identification within playful real-world context.
11. UNIQUE KIDS Monkey Balance Cool Math Game
Discover the magic of balance and basic math with the UNIQUE KIDS Monkey Balance Cool Math Game!
This engaging activity not only boosts your child’s number comprehension but also enhances their cognitive skills. While children immerse themselves in joyful learning, parents will adore the precious moments of watching their little ones grow academically with a smile.
- Materials Needed: Monkey Balance, numbered weights, and scale.
- Duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: Suitable for children aged 3 to 6 years.
- Math Discipline: Basic arithmetic and number recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances early arithmetic understanding, fosters number recognition, and promotes cognitive balancing skills through playful interaction.
12. Simple Montessori Counting Activity
Unleash the potential of your little learner with this straightforward Montessori Counting Activity from My Mundane and Miraculous Life.
Inspired by Montessori principles, this hands-on learning exercise blends tactile engagement with foundational number concepts.
It’s about making counting comprehensible and fun! With everyday materials and a pinch of creativity, you can spark your child’s mathematical curiosity, preparing them for more intricate arithmetic down the line.
- Materials Needed: Smooth stones, number cards, and a flat surface.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes.
- Ideal Age: Children 2.5 – 5 years old.
- Math Discipline: Arithmetic foundations.
- Math Skills Focus: This activity enhances numeral recognition, one-to-one correspondence, and foundational counting skills, promoting early mathematical understanding.
13. Listen & Spray Math Game
When the weather is hot, and what better way to combine the glee of outdoor play with a sprinkle of learning than the Listen & Spray Math Game?
With a burst of water, kids not only refresh themselves but also their counting skills while having a blast with this summer math activity for preschoolers. Simple to set up, yet jam-packed with learning potential, this activity promises giggles, splashes, and enthusiastic counting.
Dive into this aquatic adventure and watch your little ones gleefully merge playtime with math mastery, reinforcing essential skills in the sunniest, splashiest way possible!
- Materials Needed: Spray bottle filled with water, chalk, and outdoor space.
- Duration: 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 3-6 years.
- Math Discipline: Counting and Number Recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: Encourages children to identify, recognize, and articulate numbers through playful, tactile, and auditory reinforcement.
14. Sorting Number Stickers
In the heart of every child lies a mathematician waiting to emerge! Dive into the whimsical world of numbers with “Sorting Number Stickers,” a delightful hands-on activity designed to instill numeracy skills.
As our young learners peel, stick, and sort their way through colorful number stickers, not only do they get the thrill of mastering numbers, but they also enhance their fine motor skills with this fun preschool number math game.
It’s an enchanting blend of play, creativity, and learning, reminiscent of the wonderful bonding moments we cherish with our little ones.
- Materials Needed: Number stickers, colored paper, and marker.
- Duration: About 20-30 minutes.
- Ideal Age: 3-6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Numeracy and number recognition.
- Math Skills Focus: This activity nurtures an understanding of number sequences, recognition, and enhances counting and sorting skills in young learners.
15. Google Slides Counting Game
In today’s digital age, why not blend tech with learning? The Google Slides Counting Game is a vibrant mix of tech-savviness and number fun.
It’s a fabulous way for your kiddo to navigate the digital world while mastering their counting. Imagine the joy of seeing them confidently click and count, all wrapped up in a digital adventure. It’s a modern twist on math, perfect for our future tech gurus!
- Materials Needed: A computer or tablet with Google Slides.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes per session.
- Ideal Age: 3 to 6 years old.
- Math Discipline: Basic Arithmetic.
- Math Skills Focus: Enhances counting proficiency and number recognition while fostering digital navigation skills.
Get Your Little Ones Counting Today!
Teaching math for preschoolers can be tough for anyone, but you can use these math activities to help your little ones buld confidence and grow.
Introducing counting activities to preschoolers is not just about numbers—it’s about sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning. Through creative games and hands-on experiences, we can make math fun, engaging, and accessible. Remember, it’s the joy in the journey, not just the destination.
Cheers to nurturing little mathematicians and making memories along the way. Happy counting
Happy counting!
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