Numbers Count!

Your four year old knows what numbers are and hopefully is using them during every day play and living.   As your child starts sharing with friends, you may hear him use phrases such as, “I will have three blocks and you can have three blocks.”  Numbers have become engrained as part of life for your preschooler.   You are noticing that they may ask for things such as “Can I have two carrots?” or “I need one more wheel for my car.”  All of these opportunities are for enriching and expanding his math literacy skills. 

Now it’s time to see if your child can “read” numbers.  When you show your little one a number 3, for example, does he recognize that it is the number 3? For now, just focus on numbers zero through ten.  You may want to use two sets of flash cards and line up one set in front of your child.  Then show your child one number at a time.  See if he can match the number in his hand to the number in front of him.  The numbers six and nine are extremely tricky for children as they look very alike, so if your child confuses these don’t worry as this is a common mistake.  You may want to draw a line underneath the numbers six and nine to help understand which side is up.

When you are outside you can practice numbers too by writing numbers in the sand, mud, or by using chalk.  Using a different medium makes the activity more engaging.  Draw the numbers and have your child point to the numbers you recite out loud or if your child is up for a challenge have him try to draw a matching number.  You could also ask him to find objects that match the number.  He might see three rocks on the ground and associate that with the number three.  If you have number cards with you, see if he can pick out the “three” card as well! Continue the game until he has found enough objects for all items.  Don’t forget to praise him for his mathematical abilities as you continue to make number talk a natural part of your life.