Made for little discoveries

First numbers

Count real things, connect a small group to its number, and notice numbers in everyday life. A handful of toys can be the start of a good conversation.

First numbers

Number cards 1–10

Clear number cards from 1 to 10 for matching numerals with small groups of real objects.

2–3 · 3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Count and match 1–10

Count small picture groups and match each total with its numeral, with a straightforward answer key.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Find the partner to make ten

Use ten-frame spaces to find the missing partner that makes ten. Four clear examples and separate answers.

4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Join two small groups

Count two visible groups, join them and find how many there are altogether. Four clear examples and separate answers.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Take away with pictures

Remove a stated number from a small group and count what remains. Four clear examples and separate answers.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

More, fewer or the same

Compare two groups by pairing or counting, including a pair with the same amount. Four clear examples and separate answers.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Missing numbers to ten

Use a visible number strip to identify one missing numeral in a short sequence. Four clear examples and separate answers.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Number rods and strips 1–10

Ten cutout number rods with one equal-sized square per unit, plus a labelled 1–10 counting strip.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Printable counters and counting mats

Twenty large cutout counters, two sorting mats and a numbered strip for practical counting together.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

First numbers

Ten-frame counting mats

Count dots in ten-frame examples, then use two empty ten-frames with your own counters.

3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity

A little guidance before you begin

Do we need to reach ten?

No. Start with one, two and three objects. Let your child move each object while counting; stop when the activity is no longer enjoyable.

Can I use these at home or in a classroom?

Yes. Download and print copies for your household or your own teaching group. The core resources are free, with no registration. Please share the resource link rather than uploading the files elsewhere.

Can I show these without printing?

Picture-card packs have a picture-play view with names or answers to reveal. Stories can be read on screen. Crafts show a finished example to discuss together; print the scene and pieces for the hands-on activity.