These activities will help your Pre-K and Preschool kids practice numeral identification.
Glitter Numbers
Children trace over the number with their finger and then with glitter glue. We recite Jack Hartmann’s number writing rhymes (“Math in Motion” CD). Another source for rhymes: HubbardsCupboard.org.
Sand Boxes
Children practice writing numerals in the sand with their finger. The sand box is just a wooden box (originally a game came in it) with about a 3-inch rim around it, with enough colored art sand to cover the bottom. I’ve seen many teachers use salt trays, but since children often have cuts on their fingers, salt burns. This is why I prefer to use sand, and the children like the colors, which I change out every so often. I have also used a plastic shoe box size tub for a sand tray (just make sure the bottom is completely flat).
Stamping Game
Children roll a numeral game die, find the numeral on their paper, and stamp it out. They continue until they have stamped every numeral. Get free bingo marker stamping games here (these are editable so you can type in the numbers you choose).
Number Punching
I wrote a number on a half sheet of construction paper with a Sharpie. Children sit on the floor, placing their paper on the carpet, and poke holes through the paper along the lines using a toothpick. When they are done, they can hold the paper up to the light and see tiny “stars” in the shape of their number.
Yarn Numbers
Children trace the numeral with glue, then lay a piece of yarn in the glue to form the number.
Number Bingo
Children listen as numbers are called out. If that number is on their bingo card, they cover it with a chip or math counter. When a child’s bingo card is full, they call out “Bingo!” We always play until everyone fills their card.
Number Hole Punch
This activity helps children practice number recognition and fine motor skills. Children find the numbers and punch them with a hole puncher. There’s also a counting set included to identify the number and punch the correct number of holes.
Get Number Hole Punch printables in my shop here.
Number Magnetic Tiles
Magnetic tile mats are so popular with Pre-K children! These Number Magnetic Tile mats help them practice recognizing numerals while they have fun with magnet tiles.
Number Hunt
Hide numeral cards around the classroom. Children search for the numbers and bring them back to identify. You can make it more challenging by asking children to find a specific number. These free number printables will work great for this game.
Number Bean Bag Toss
Place numeral cards on the floor. Children toss a bean bag onto a numeral and identify the number it lands on. Get free number printables for this game.
Paintbrush Water Numbers
Outside on the sidewalk or playground, children “paint” numerals with water and paintbrushes. This is especially fun in warm weather.
Find more Number & Counting Activities here.