Young children are very aware of their surroundings and the language used to describe everyday objects and ideas. You can help to enhance your child's awareness and recognition of numbers by observing and enriching your child's play. Your child will begin to recognise that there are a number of different toys, colours, sizes and shapes in your house. Seize the teachable moment by explaining to your child the significance of numbers.

Make a poster with the numbers one through ten on it.

Tape the poster to a wall in a room where your child likes to play. Refer to the poster when you observe your child noticing a number of similar objects. Say things like, "Do you have two blocks? I see that you have three blue cups. Do you see one red sock?" Point to the poster and show your child the number you are talking about.

Count out loud when playing with your child.

Play number games in the bath tub.

Using a plastic shovel and pail, count the number of water scoops you pour into the pail. Blow bubbles and count the bubbles. Count fingers and toes as you wash them.

Point out the numbers you see when driving, shopping or taking a walk.

I taught my two year-old son the numbers 1-20 by pointing out the numbers on mailboxes on our road as we walked past them. There are numbers everywhere in your neighbourhood. Point them out to your child and praise him when he points the numbers out to you.

Buy toys that have numbers on them.

Make up silly numbers games to play.

Tips

• Praise your child often for trying to count or recall numbers. Remember that your child is learning a new skill. Don't be critical of mistakes.
• Purchase an educational videotape about numbers for your toddler to watch. There are some great ones out there.
• When you are colouring, draw numbers and name them as you draw them.
• If your child recognises a number but names it wrong, correct your child by saying something like, "Yes, I see a four. You are good at pointing out numbers."
• Show your child the difference and similarity of the numbers six and nine by turning them upside down over and over again while saying, " Six, nine, six, nine."

Warnings

• Your child will have a short attention span. Don't force a game if your child wants to move on to something else.
• Engage your child in learning while you are playing. Trying to get your child to sit down and listen to a lesson on numbers will prove frustrating for you and your child.

For Further Reading