Tips & Tricks for Teaching Your Toddler to Count

Samantha Engel – Master of Arts in Teaching, Fairleigh Dickinson University

As early as the age of 2, your child may start recognizing numbers and attempting to count (even if they're saying the numbers out of order). It's a wonderful time to start engaging with numbers and other math skills that they will solidify in the future. With some simple and fun activities and a few tips, parents can teach their toddlers to count and foster a love of numbers that will last a lifetime. Here are some strategies for teaching your toddler to count:

Use Visual Aids: Toddlers are visual learners, and using visual aids can make counting more engaging and fun. Use blocks, toys, or pictures to help your toddler visualize the numbers they are counting.
Sing Counting Songs: Counting songs are a fun way to teach toddlers to count. Songs like "Five Little Ducks," "Ten in the Bed," and "One, Two, Buckle My Shoe" are great for introducing counting skills.
Count Everyday Objects: Counting everyday objects such as toys, snacks, or pieces of fruit is a great way to practice counting. This activity can be done during mealtime, playtime, or even when running errands.
Use Finger Counting: Finger counting is a useful way to help toddlers understand the concept of counting. Start by counting fingers on one hand and then move on to both hands to help them count up to ten. Use toes if you want to make them giggle!
Play Number Games: There are many games that parents can play with their toddlers to teach counting skills. Games like "I Spy" and "Count and Match" are fun and interactive and help develop counting skills.
Make It Fun: Toddlers have a short attention span, so it's essential to make counting fun and exciting. Incorporate games, songs, and activities that are engaging and interactive to keep your toddler interested.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any skill, counting takes practice, and the more you practice, the better your toddler will become. Make counting a regular part of your daily routine to help your toddler develop their counting skills.
Be Patient: Learning to count takes time, and toddlers may not grasp the concept immediately. Be patient and encourage your toddler to keep practicing, and soon they will become more confident in their counting skills.
Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your toddler's achievements and progress in their counting skills. Positive reinforcement can help motivate them to continue practicing and learning.

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