Counting to 20: Building Strong Counting Skills in K-1

Counting involves reciting number names in a fixed sequence, known as the stable-order principle (Gelman & Gallistel, 1978).

1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → ...

This means children need to develop two important skills:

1. Know the number names

2. Understand that numbers come in a fixed order

So when a child says, “1, 2, 4, 5...”, they may know several number names, but they are still developing an understanding of the counting sequence.

One simple and effective way to help children build strong counting skills? Give them lots of opportunities to count out loud.

You can make counting part of everyday learning by singing counting songs, listening to songs, watching educational videos together, reading books that feature number names, and doing fun counting activities.

Think about learning to play the piano. One effective strategy piano teachers use is having students say the names of the notes (letters) out loud while playing to help them become familiar with the notes.

Counting works in a similar way.

Children need rich opportunities to say the number names out loud, hear the sequence, see the number names, and practice saying them in order.

The more children hear, see, and say the number names, the more familiar the counting sequence becomes.

Here are a few free “Counting to 20” YouTube videos I used in my own classroom over the years that you can try with your learners at home or in the classroom:

What is your child’s or learner’s favorite way to practice counting to 20? Share your ideas in the comments!

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Reference:
Gelman, R., & Gallistel, C. R. (1978). The child’s understanding of number. Harvard University Press.