How to Teach Toddlers to Count

Every parent has the privilege of being their child’s first teacher. One of the most exciting things you can teach them is how to count! Early numeracy skills don’t just prepare toddlers for school; they give them a solid foundation for understanding the world around them. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be boring!

Here’s your guide to starting the magical, fun-filled adventure of counting with your little one.

The Starting Point

When it comes to teaching toddlers, the key is to make learning feel natural and engaging. At this age, your child doesn't need to memorise complex rules or sit still with worksheets. Instead, focus on embedding numbers into their everyday lives.

Simple Tips to Get Started:

• Start with everyday moments

Count as you work through daily routines. “One cup of milk… two slices of bread…” These simple actions introduce your toddler to numbers in a way that makes sense to them.

• Model counting

Show your toddler how counting works by demonstrating it yourself. For instance, as you come down the stairs, count each step together.

• Be patient

Remember, every child learns at their own pace. Celebrate small wins, whether it’s recognising the number "2" or successfully counting “1, 2, 3”!

Make It a Game

Play is a toddler’s language, so make counting fun by introducing games and toys that encourage numerical thinking. Here are some ideas to get started!

1. Counting Songs

Encourage your toddler to sing along to classics like "One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Once I Caught a Fish Alive" or "Ten Green Bottles." Songs use repetition and rhyme to help children remember the sequence of numbers.

2. Number Blocks and Puzzles

Invest in colourful stacking or number blocks. Toddlers can practice putting them in numerical order or identifying the numbers on the blocks. Puzzles with numbers are also fantastic choices as they boost both numeracy and problem-solving skills.

3. Toy Sorting Games

Use toys you already own! Sort cars, Lego bricks, or figurines into groups. Ask questions like, “How many red cars do we have?” or “Can you count the blue blocks?”

4. Count During Outdoor Play

Head outdoors and bring counting with you! Collect leaves, count sticks, or count how many times your child can jump in one go. Movement and play make learning more dynamic and memorable.

Suggested Toys for Counting Fun

Looking for the perfect tools for the job? These toddler-friendly toys make learning to count easy and entertaining:

• Counting Bears

A colourful, hands-on toy that encourages sorting, counting, and learning colours.

• Abacus

A timeless classic that provides a tactile, visual way for toddlers to practise counting. Plus, they get bright colours to keep them engaged!

• Shape Sorters with Numbers

These combine the concepts of numbers and shapes, making multi-sensory connections for your little one.

• Counting Books

Interactive books like Ten Little Ladybirds or Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed make storytime an opportunity to practise numbers.

Why Early Numeracy Matters

Teaching your toddler to count isn’t just about numbers; it develops important skills such as problem-solving, logical thinking, and memory. It also builds their confidence and curiosity. When kids learn early that numbers are fun, it sets the stage for lifelong math success.

Final Thoughts

Teaching your toddler to count is a joyful and rewarding experience. By incorporating numbers naturally into daily routines and prioritising playful learning, you can make numeracy an exciting part of your little one’s world.