Counting and understanding numbers

Young children are often able to count, but understanding how a number name such as 'three' applies to a collection of three objects takes much longer.

Daily opportunities to count and use numbers in everyday activities and play, will help your child to develop a strong understanding of numbers. For example, counting spoons when getting ready for breakfast, counting toys and pointing at each one in turn, 'one, two, three....you've got three pigs, one big pig and two little pigs'.

Children who attend nursery or a childminder enjoy songs with counting in them. You can find number songs online, or join in at a library 'bounce and rhyme' session.