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Age 5 guide to counting to 20

Age-appropriate activities, explanations and practice ideas for counting to 20.

Quick answer

By the end of this page, you will know how to count to 20 confidently, understand how numbers grow, and use counting in everyday life.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to count from 1 to 20 in order, recognise numbers up to 20, and use counting to solve simple problems. Success signs:
  • You can count from 1 to 20 without missing any numbers
  • You can show 1 to 20 objects and say how many there are
  • You can match numbers to groups of objects
  • You can count forward and backward from 1 to 20

Why this matters

Counting to 20 is a big step in maths! It helps you understand how numbers grow and get bigger. When you know numbers up to 20, you can:
  • Count your toys, sweets, or friends
  • Know how many items you have
  • Start learning addition and subtraction
  • Understand time and money better
  • Play games that use numbers
Even grown-ups use counting to check how many cookies are left, how many steps to climb, or how many minutes until bedtime!

How it works

Counting to 20 means saying numbers in order from 1 to 20. Each number is one more than the last.
  1. Start with 1
  2. Count on: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
  3. Keep going: 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
You can count using your fingers, objects, or just your voice. The numbers get bigger and bigger as you go.

Examples you can see

Let's count together using fun examples: Counting with fingers
Number Fingers
1 1 finger
5 5 fingers
10 10 fingers
15 15 fingers
20 20 fingers
Here's how to count objects:
  • Count 1 apple, 2 apples, 3 apples, 4 apples, 5 apples
  • Count 10 blocks, 11 blocks, 12 blocks, 13 blocks, 14 blocks, 15 blocks
  • Count 18 toys, 19 toys, 20 toys
You can also count backwards:
  • 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Treasure Hunt You are on a treasure hunt! You need to find 20 clues hidden in your house. Each clue gives you a number.
  1. First clue: Count 1 step forward
  2. Second clue: Count 2 steps forward
  3. Third clue: Count 3 steps forward
  4. Fourth clue: Count 4 steps forward
  5. Fifth clue: Count 5 steps forward
  6. Sixth clue: Count 6 steps forward
  7. Seventh clue: Count 7 steps forward
  8. Eighth clue: Count 8 steps forward
  9. Ninth clue: Count 9 steps forward
  10. Tenth clue: Count 10 steps forward
  11. Eleventh clue: Count 11 steps forward
  12. Twelfth clue: Count 12 steps forward
  13. Thirteenth clue: Count 13 steps forward
  14. Fourteenth clue: Count 14 steps forward
  15. Fifteenth clue: Count 15 steps forward
  16. Sixteenth clue: Count 16 steps forward
  17. Seventeenth clue: Count 17 steps forward
  18. Eighteenth clue: Count 18 steps forward
  19. Nineteenth clue: Count 19 steps forward
  20. Twentieth clue: Count 20 steps forward
After each clue, you can count how many clues you've found so far. Try it with a grown-up or friend!

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Skipping numbers like 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
    Why it happens: Counting too fast or not focusing
    Fix: Count slowly and clearly, or use your fingers to help
  • Mistake: Saying "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20" but then starting over at 1
    Why it happens: Confusion about where the count ends
    Fix: Use a chart or number line to see the end
  • Mistake: Counting objects twice or missing some
    Why it happens: Not keeping track
    Fix: Touch each object once as you count it

Parent and carer guide

Parents and carers, here's how to help your child count to 20:
  • Count together with your child daily
  • Use fingers, toys, or snacks to practice
  • Make counting part of playtime
  • Ask questions like "How many blocks are in this tower?"
  • Use counting in everyday life: "We need 5 apples", "I have 12 crayons"
  • Don't worry if they make mistakes – it's part of learning!
  • Give praise for effort, not just correct answers
You can also make counting games:
  • Count how many steps to the door
  • Count the number of cups at the table
  • Count how many times you can jump
Remember, children learn at different speeds. Be patient and keep making it fun!

Practice questions

  1. Count forward from 1 to 20
  2. Count backward from 20 to 1
  3. How many fingers are on one hand?
  4. How many fingers are on two hands?
  5. Count 10 blocks, then 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
  6. How many legs do 5 dogs have?
  7. How many wheels do 4 bicycles have?
  8. How many eyes do 3 people have?
Answers:
  1. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20
  2. 20, 19, 18, 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
  3. 5 fingers
  4. 10 fingers
  5. Counted correctly
  6. 20 legs
  7. 8 wheels
  8. 6 eyes

FAQ

What is the best way to teach counting to 20?

Use hands, objects, games, and real-life examples. Count together daily and make it fun!

How can I tell if my child is ready to count to 20?

They can count to 10 easily, know number names, and match numbers to objects.

What if my child gets confused when counting?

Be patient and use visual aids like fingers or blocks. Practice a little every day.

Can I use songs to help with counting?

Yes! Songs and rhymes make counting easier and more fun for children.

How often should I practice counting with my child?

Practice a few minutes every day. Consistency helps more than long sessions.