Missing Numbers Worksheets
These missing numbers worksheets help children complete simple number sequences by writing the number that comes before, after or between other numbers. They suit children aged 2 to 6, with easier pages for early learners and more challenging sequences for children ready to count further. The worksheets are free to print for home or classroom use.
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At a glance
- Ages: 2 to 6 years
- Skills: Counting and number order
- You need: Pencil or crayons
- Time: 5 to 15 minutes
Number sequences for early learners
This set gives young children practice with numbers in order. Easier activities use small numbers and clear pictures, while later pages ask children to fill gaps in longer sequences. A child may trace a number, choose from a small group of answers or write the missing number independently. Children aged 2 to 4 can begin with counting aloud and filling one easy gap. Children aged 5 to 6 can work with several missing numbers and sequences that move forwards or backwards. If your child is learning a particular number, you can also use the Number 1 Worksheets or Number 2 Worksheets for extra practice.
Simple ways to use the worksheets
At home, begin by counting objects such as spoons, blocks or steps, then complete one short worksheet together. Ask your child to say the whole sequence aloud before writing. In a class, place a worksheet at a maths centre with number cards, counters and a pencil. Children can work alone, with a partner or with an adult who reads the instructions. For younger children, cover all but one small section and give plenty of time. For older children, ask them to make their own number line with one number missing for a friend to solve.
Helping children spot the missing number
Children often know how to count aloud but still lose track when a number is hidden. They may start at the wrong place, skip a number or write the number before the gap instead of the number after it. Point to each number slowly and let your child touch or move one counter for every step in the sequence. If the gap is difficult, say the numbers before and after it together. A number line can help children check their thinking. Encourage them to count forwards from the beginning rather than guess from the shape of the blank.
Lumi's tips
- Make it easier by covering most of the worksheet and working on one short sequence with counters beside it.
- Make it harder by asking your child to complete sequences with two or more gaps or to count backwards from a familiar number.
- Keep it fun by writing number sequences with chalk outdoors or finding the missing number in groups of household objects.
How to download and print
- Sign in or join free, it takes a few seconds.
- Choose a page and tap Download. Pick A4 or US Letter to match your paper.
- Open the PDF and print at "Actual size" (100%) so nothing is cut off.
- Your downloads stay in My Library, so you can print them again any time.
Questions parents ask
What are missing numbers worksheets?
They are maths activities where children complete a number sequence by writing the number that has been left out. The sequence may count forwards or backwards.
What age can children start missing numbers activities?
Children can begin with very short sequences when they are about 2 to 4 years old. Start with counting aloud and picture clues, then move to written numbers as your child becomes ready.
How can I teach missing numbers to my child?
Use a number line, counters or everyday objects to show the order of numbers. Say the sequence together, pause at the gap and ask your child which number comes next.
How do I download or print these worksheets?
Create a free EarlyActivity account to download printables. The files are PDFs for A4 and US Letter paper, and you can print them for use at home or in your own classroom.
How can I make missing number worksheets easier?
Use small numbers, give two or three possible answers and let your child count objects while solving the page. Begin with one missing number in each sequence.
More numbers
Before After Between Numbers
These before, after and between numbers worksheets help children aged 2 to 6 place numbers in the correct order. They are free to download and print for home or classroom practice.
Comparing Numbers Worksheets
These comparing numbers worksheets help children aged 2 to 6 decide which group or number has more, less or the same. They are free to print and suit early maths practice at home or in the classroom.
Expanded Form Worksheets
These expanded form worksheets help children split numbers into tens and ones, then write or match the parts that make each number. They suit early learners aged 2 to 6, with picture-based activities for younger children and simple number work for older children. The printables are free to print for home or classroom use.
Greater Than Less Than Worksheets
These greater than less than worksheets help children compare groups, numbers and simple quantities using pictures and the symbols >, < and =. They suit children aged 2 to 6 and are free to print for home or classroom practice.
Number 10 Worksheets
These number 10 worksheets help children aged 2 to 6 practise recognising, tracing, counting and writing the number 10. They are free to download and print for use at home or in your own classroom.
Number 11 Worksheets
These number 11 worksheets help children trace, recognise, count and write the number 11. They suit children aged 2 to 6 and are free to print for use at home or in your own classroom.