Skip Counting Dot to Dot

What is in this set

The puzzles use number sequences instead of counting by ones. Children follow dots by 2s, 5s, or 10s, then colour the picture they uncover. Easier pages use large dots, short sequences, and familiar numbers. More challenging pages use longer paths and ask children to switch between skip-counting patterns. This gives younger learners a gentle start while older children get extra practise. If your child is new to dot to dot, begin with Dot to Dot 1 to 10, then return to these number patterns.

Simple ways to use the puzzles

At home, say the number pattern aloud before your child begins. You can write the next few numbers on a scrap of paper and let your child check each dot as they work. In class, use one puzzle as a warm-up for a maths lesson, then ask pairs of children to explain the pattern to each other. Children can colour the finished pictures and circle every number they found difficult. For a quiet activity, place a few printed puzzles in a folder with pencils and crayons. Finish by asking where they might use counting by 5s or 10s in daily life.

Help with common skip-counting mistakes

Children sometimes start at the wrong dot, count by ones, or miss a number in the sequence. Ask your child to point and say each number before drawing a line. If they lose their place, cover the unused dots with a small piece of paper and reveal them one at a time. Counting aloud with a steady beat can help keep the jumps even. For 5s, connect the pattern to fingers on both hands. For 10s, look at the tens changing while the ones digit stays at zero. Praise careful checking rather than speed.