From the early days of counting fingers to the more sophisticated understanding of multiplication and division, children learn to count through a variety of ways. In this article we take a look at all the experiences that teach kids how to count. We will focus on experiences that take place before formal schooling such as starting to count in sequence, one-to-one correspondence, and recognizing numbers.
Early Numeracy Experiences
Everyday activities, such as counting toys, stairs, or snacks, create a playful introduction to the concept of numbers.
These experiences that are often encouraged by parents before the child even enters any kind of school is really the foundation of learning to count.
As is the case with learning to read the parents need to be the role model.
They need to encourage counting and purposefully count to their child so the child is used to hearing the numbers.
Counting in Sequence
Around the age of two or three, children typically start to grasp the concept of counting in sequence.
This involves reciting numbers in the correct order, even if the understanding of the numerical value of each digit is still developing.
Songs, rhymes, and interactive counting games play a crucial role in reinforcing this early counting skill.
Like I mentioned earlier it is vital that the child hear the number words first, and then later on is able to count by sequence.
Understanding One-to-One Correspondence
As children progress, they begin to associate each count with a single object through one-to-one correspondence.
This development is pivotal in solidifying the understanding that each number represents a specific quantity, whether it’s counting fingers, toys, or other tangible items.
The child figures out that the number “one” represents an amount of something.
They learn that the higher the number the more of something there is.
Recognizing Numerals and Symbols
Around preschool age, children start recognizing numerals and symbols that represent numbers.
This visual recognition enhances their ability to connect the abstract concept of numbers to concrete representations.
Exposure to written numbers in various contexts, such as books and educational materials, aids in this recognition.
Counting Objects and Sets
The ability to count objects within a set marks a significant step in counting skills.
Children learn to count not just in sequence but also to assign a numerical value to a group of objects.
This skill is foundational for more complex mathematical concepts later on.
It is during this time that children will start to count how much of something there is.
For example, the child is able to count five apples.
Engaging in Everyday Counting Activities
Everyday experiences provide rich opportunities for counting practice.
Whether it’s counting the number of cookies on a plate, steps on a staircase, or participants in a game, these activities reinforce counting skills in real-life contexts.
Parents should try to incorporate counting into all kids of situations.
Have the child count how many chairs are in the kitchen, the amount of toys they have, the number of shoes, etc…
Counting in Educational Settings
Formal education settings, such as preschool and kindergarten, play a crucial role in furthering counting skills.
Teachers introduce structured activities and games that promote counting.
Their ability to count will take a big leap forward once they enter kindergarten because there is a whole curriculum based on counting.
Number Recognition and Beyond
As children progress through elemantary school, they not only refine their counting skills but also gain a deeper understanding of numerical concepts, including addition, subtraction, and more complex mathematical operations.
At this point the counting is now become a mathematical skill that everything else can build from.
Allen is an 8th grade teacher in a Chicago suburb.
