Here are some simple and engaging activities to help children develop rote counting (reciting numbers in order) and one-to-one correspondence (counting objects accurately by assigning one number per item) for numbers 1–20.
Counting Songs & Rhymes – Sing songs like “1, 2, Buckle My Shoe” or count to 20 using a familiar tune.
Clap & Count – Clap, stomp, or jump while counting out loud to engage movement.
Passing a Ball – Pass a ball in a circle, with each child saying the next number in sequence.
Number Train – Have children line up and count as they “chug” along.
Echo Counting – Say a number and have children repeat it in sequence.
Counting Objects – Use blocks, beads, or counters, touching each one as you count.
Dot Sticker Match – Place numbered cards (1–20) and have children stick the correct number of dot stickers on each.
Playdough Smash – Roll small playdough balls and have children smash one for each counted number.
Egg Carton Counting – Number an egg carton (1–12 or 1–20) and have children place small objects inside to match the numbers.
Lego Tower Counting – Build towers with a specific number of Lego bricks and count them one by one.
Counting Jumps – Jump or hop while counting, ensuring one jump per number.
Snack Time Counting – Count out pieces of fruit, crackers, or other snacks before eating.
Fishing for Numbers – Write numbers on paper fish and have children “catch” them with a magnet fishing rod, then count objects to match.