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
Picture cards · Free printable
Number cards 1–10
Saying a number word, recognising its written symbol and counting a group are related but different things. These cards are a simple reference while you play with real objects. Start with one, two and three; keep the rest nearby for another day instead of expecting every card to be used at once.
Take a little peek10 items · Original illustrations
1
2
3
4
5
6
Big clear pictures. Labels you can reveal.
Inside the printable
First page shown. The download includes the complete activity and grown-up guidance.
What we’re exploring
Connect a written numeral with the number word and a matching quantity.
A little way to play
- Pick a few cards and name each number. Put them where both of you can see them.
- Use safe, large objects such as blocks. Touch or move each object once as you count it.
- Place the matching number card beside the group and say the total: “Three blocks.”
- Change the arrangement without adding or removing objects. Count again if your child wants to check.
Make it easier
Work with one and two objects. An adult can do the counting while the child gives one object or points to a card.
Try a little moreChoose a card and build a group to match it. Ask whether spreading the same objects farther apart changes how many there are.
For the grown-up
Reciting to ten does not necessarily mean a child can count ten objects yet. Keep the quantity comfortable and avoid small loose items if they could be mouthed.
Answers & naming help
The cards show the numerals 1 through 10. Match 1 with one object, 2 with two, and so on. Count every object once; the last number word gives the total in that counted group.
1 · 2 · 3 · 4 · 5 · 6 · 7 · 8 · 9 · 10
How do I print this?
Choose your vocabulary and paper size, then download the PDF. Print at actual size or 100%. Use the low-ink option for outline activities; colour-name cards still need their colour to teach the word. Cut-and-stack mini-books are available in the flashcard maker.
Helpful parent guides
Keep the discoveries going.
More first numbers ↗Words & picture cards
Animal picture cards
Eight familiar pet and farm-animal pictures to name, compare and use in quick guessing games.
2–3 · 3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity
Words & picture cards
Everyday objects picture cards
Familiar home objects with British and American labels, ready for pointing, naming and “what do we use it for?” games.
2–3 · 3–4 · 4–5 years · FreeExplore activity