How to Teach Toddlers Their Numbers

Teach a toddler numbers

Toddlers love to explore their world and learn new concepts. You can teach your child beginning numbers at this age. Depending on how he or she picks up counting or exposure to numbers, you may be able to expose your toddler to counting and teach him numbers one through nine. You can teach oral counting, number recognition and even quantity (what the number actually means such as 9 means nine pennies and so on).

Things You'll Need

• Two sets of flash cards with large numbers 1 through 9
• Counting objects
• Container

Instructions

1. Make or buy number flash cards. These flash cards should be at least 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 cards with large numbers written on them in simple, neat print.

2. Gather a large amount of interesting, small objects in different quantities. For example, you could get one plastic dinosaur, two red blocks, three spinning tops and so on. Put the objects together in a container or box. If your toddler likes a certain type of animal or action figure, use these objects. This is a good way to get your toddler interested in the "number game" you want to play with him.

3. Sit your toddler on the floor in front of you or at a table in his booster seat. Sing, "Where is number 1? Where is number 1? Here, here is number 1." Then show your child the number one flash card. Sing this song for each of the numbers you are going to work on that day.

4. Place the numbers in sequential order from left to right in front of your toddler. Then start putting objects in a column in front of each object. So, you might place one toy car, two plastic rings and so on. When you are placing the objects on the table or carpet, count them out loud, such as, "Three bouncy balls. One ball, two balls, three balls." Ask your toddler to count with you.

5. Ask your child to find the number 1 or another larger number, depending on his ability to recognize numbers. You can help him at first, of course, until he catches on. Say, "Please find the number 2." If your child picks up the wrong card or is staring at the cards, you can help your toddler by saying, "Let's count. One, two. Here is the 2." Then pick up the 2 flash card and hand it to your child. Have your child hand it back to you, and praise him for finding the card.

6. You can also ask your child to match numbers. For example, when you are finished laying out the number cards and the objects to show quantity, you can give your toddler a number card with a 5 on it. Ask your child to find the 5 that is already on the table or the carpet. Then he can hand you both 5 cards.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you feel your toddler knows numbers 1 through 9, you can add two-digit numbers.

• Take your time with your child, and don't get frustrated if your child seems to be making slow progress. It is easier for toddlers to count the numbers orally than to recognize them and understand the quantity that represents the numbers they are able to say out loud. Just keep practicing, and your toddler will soon be recognizing his numbers.

Resources

• Margo Dill's website