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1, 2, 3, Count With Me!

Reading counting books with my kids is one of my favorite things to do! There’s something so special about cuddling up together and exploring the colorful pages while they count every object they see—sometimes even twice, just to be sure.

Not only is it a fun bonding moment, but it’s also amazing to watch them build early math skills like number recognition and one-to-one correspondence. These books make learning numbers feel like a game, and I love seeing their confidence grow with every page. It’s the perfect way to spark a love for both reading and math in young children!

I love how easy it is to find counting books at garage sales and thrift stores. But if you are looking for a few to buy right away, here’s a list of a few that you may want to check out.

(PS don’t forget to check out Thriftbooks or Book Outlet for great deals!)

Curious George, 1 to 10 and back again.

Counting Pumpkins

Ten Little Snowmen

Ten Little Ladybugs

My first book of number (I love the simplicity and price of this one!)

So above and beyond reading books, the following work is designed to help reinforce the recognition of each number.

Things you will need:

• Counting tray - we used an ice cube tray, you could also use muffin tin, egg carton, etc

• Small Stickers or tape (just not clear tape)

• Pen/marker

• Beads or beans or glass gems or any item small enough to fit but big enough for your child to handle

• Bowl

Write the numbers on the stickers, then stick them on your counting tray. Make sure it's easy to know which number represents which hole.

Gather enough the exact amount of gems for each hole. This is a control of error because the child will recognize with the last number if he has too many or not enough gems. The child should then be encouraged to count and see where he made a mistake.

Place the items in the bowl, then place it along with the counting tray on a bigger tray.

Presentation

1. Bring the tray to the table and place the bowl in front of you to your left and counting tray to the right.

2. Point to the first number, starting at the top left, and say 'This says 1'. Then take one gem and say 'this is one', then place it in the tray.

3. Point and say the next number, on our tray the second number is 3, then take one gem at a time, counting out loud as you place them in the tray.

4. Repeat step 3 until all the cubes have been filled.

5. Take the gems and put them back into the bowl, put everything back in the carrying tray.

6. Stand up, push your chair back to the table, and return your tray to the shelf.

Variation

To make this easier, use a counting tray with less holes or cubes.

To make this harder, use the next numbers.