Counting 1 to 20 Worksheets

A gentle start with numbers to 20

This set gives young children a range of ways to work with numbers from 1 to 20. Younger children can begin with large numerals, tracing and small groups of objects. Children who are ready for more can count larger collections, fill in missing numbers and connect a number to the right quantity. Clear pictures and plenty of space help children focus on one task at a time. Let your child complete just one small activity during a sitting, then return to the set another day. These Counting Worksheets can provide more practice when you need it.

Simple ideas for home and class

At home, place a few buttons, blocks or bottle caps beside the worksheet and ask your child to touch one object for each number spoken. In class, pair children so one counts while the other points to the numerals. You can use a worksheet as a short table activity, then follow it with a movement game where children clap, hop or tap up to a called number. Keep a pencil nearby for writing tasks and crayons for colouring activities. Praise careful counting and ask your child to explain how they know an answer is correct.

Helping children count accurately

Young children often say the number names correctly but count an object twice or miss one altogether. Encourage your child to move each object into a separate group as it is counted, or touch each picture once with a finger. Some children also know the counting sequence but do not yet connect it to a written numeral. After counting, ask, "Which number tells us how many?" If the child loses track near 13, 14 or 15, count slowly together and use a number line. A short pause and a fresh try usually works better than giving the answer.