K.CC.4: Understanding Counting

1. Counting Objects

Use small objects like buttons, blocks, or toys. Have your child touch each object as they count it.

2. Ten Frames

A ten frame is a 2×5 grid that helps children visualize numbers up to 10. Place counters in the frame and have your child count them.

3. Number Cards with Dots

Create cards showing numbers with corresponding dot patterns. This helps children connect the numeral with the quantity.

4. Counting Mats

Use a placemat or paper with numbers written on it. Have your child place the correct number of objects on each number.

1. Counting Collections

Create collections of household items (buttons, coins, pasta) for your child to count. Start with smaller amounts (5-10) and gradually increase.

2. Snack Time Math

Count food items during snack time (crackers, grapes, cereal pieces). Ask questions like "How many crackers do you have?" or "If you eat 2, how many will be left?"

3. Number Hunt

Show a number card and ask your child to find that many objects around the house.

4. Counting Books

Read counting books together. Ask your child to count the objects on each page.

5. Dice Games

Roll a die and have your child count out that many objects or take that many steps.

1. Touch and Count

If your child skips objects or counts some twice, teach them to touch each object as they count it. You can even move objects to a different pile after counting them.

2. Slow Down

Encourage your child to count slowly and deliberately. Fast counting often leads to errors.

3. Organize Objects

Arrange objects in a line or circle to make them easier to count. Scattered objects are more challenging.

4. Ask "How Many?"

After your child counts a group, ask "How many are there?" This reinforces that the last number counted represents the total quantity.

5. Start Small

If your child struggles with larger numbers, start with groups of 3-5 objects, then gradually increase.

Activity 1: Count and Match

Write numbers 1-10 on paper. Give your child small objects to count and place next to the matching number.

Activity 2: Show Me

Say a number and ask your child to show you that many fingers or objects.

Activity 3: Count and Compare

Create two groups of objects. Have your child count each group and tell which has more or less.

Activity 4: Count and Draw

Ask your child to draw a specific number of objects (e.g., "Draw 6 stars").

By the middle of the year, your child should:

• Count objects accurately up to 10
• Understand that the last number said tells how many objects are in the group
• Be able to count objects in different arrangements (line, circle, scattered)

By the end of the year, your child should:

• Count objects accurately up to 20
• Understand that each successive number refers to a quantity that is one larger
• Create groups with a specified number of objects
• Compare groups of objects to determine which has more or less

Simple Assessment:

Place 10-15 objects in front of your child and ask them to count them.
After counting, ask "How many are there?" to check if they understand cardinality.
Ask your child to give you a specific number of objects (e.g., "Please give me 7 blocks").