X Tables
Early Years Maths

Ten frames for beginners

Use ten spaces to build number bonds, doubles and efficient counting.

Quick answer

Ten frames are grids of 10 squares that help children see numbers and understand how they fit together. You can use them to count, add, subtract, and learn number bonds to 10.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to use ten frames to show numbers up to 10, understand how numbers relate to 10, and use them to solve simple addition problems. Success signs:
  • You can fill a ten frame with counters to show any number from 1 to 10
  • You can tell how many more you need to make 10
  • You can use two ten frames to solve simple addition problems
  • You can explain how numbers can be split into parts that add to 10

Why this matters

Ten frames help you understand numbers in a visual way. They are used in schools to teach early number skills and help children get ready for more complex maths like addition and subtraction. You can use ten frames when playing games, sharing snacks, or counting your toys. They are a helpful tool for learning how numbers work together.

How it works

A ten frame is a grid with 10 squares, usually 2 rows of 5. You can fill the squares with counters or draw dots to show numbers.
  1. Start with a blank ten frame
  2. Put one counter in the first square
  3. Keep adding one counter each time to show the next number
  4. When you reach 10, you have filled the whole frame
  5. You can use two ten frames to show numbers bigger than 10

Examples you can see

Let’s look at how to show different numbers using a ten frame.
Number How to show it What it looks like
1 1 counter in first square ● _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
5 5 counters in first row ● ● ● ● ● _ _ _ _ _
7 7 counters: 5 in first row, 2 in second row ● ● ● ● ● ● ● _ _ _
10 10 counters in all squares ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
You can also use ten frames to show how numbers add up to 10.
Number What it adds to 10 How to show it
3 7 more to make 10 3 filled squares + 7 empty squares
6 4 more to make 10 6 filled squares + 4 empty squares

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Magic Number Hunt You are a treasure hunter looking for the secret number. You find a map with ten frames. Each frame has some counters. You must count the counters and figure out how many more you need to make 10.
  1. First frame: 4 counters
  2. Second frame: 9 counters
  3. Third frame: 1 counter
  4. Fourth frame: 0 counters
  5. Fifth frame: 10 counters
  1. How many more to make 10 in the first frame?
  2. How many more to make 10 in the second frame?
  3. How many more to make 10 in the third frame?
  4. How many more to make 10 in the fourth frame?
  5. How many more to make 10 in the fifth frame?
Answers: 6, 1, 9, 10, 0

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the empty squares instead of filled squares
  • Why it happens: Children are used to counting from left to right, but sometimes get confused
  • Fix: Say “How many counters are there?” and point to each one
  • Mistake: Thinking 10 + 5 = 15 and using one ten frame for 15
  • Why it happens: Confusion about how to show numbers bigger than 10
  • Fix: Use two ten frames to show 15: one full and 5 in the second frame
  • Mistake: Not seeing that 3 + 7 = 10
  • Why it happens: Not understanding how numbers can be split
  • Fix: Use two ten frames to show 3 and 7, then count all

Parent and carer guide

You can help your child learn with ten frames by:
  • Using counters or small toys to fill the frames
  • Playing number games with the frames
  • Asking questions like “How many more to make 10?”
  • Using ten frames to show how many toys or snacks you have
  • Practising with your child at home using paper ten frames
Five-minute tip: Draw a ten frame on paper and ask your child to fill it with 7 counters. Then ask, “How many more to make 10?” This helps them learn quickly.

Practice questions

  1. How many counters do you need to fill a ten frame if there are 3 counters already?
  2. How many counters are in a ten frame if 6 squares are filled?
  3. How many more to make 10 if there are 2 counters in the frame?
  4. How many counters do you need to show 12 using two ten frames?
  5. How many counters are needed to show 15 using two ten frames?
Answers:
  1. 7
  2. 6
  3. 8
  4. 2 counters in second frame
  5. 5 counters in second frame

FAQ

What is a ten frame?

A ten frame is a grid with 10 squares, usually arranged in 2 rows of 5. You can use it to show numbers and understand how they add up to 10.

Why are ten frames useful?

They help children see numbers visually and understand how numbers relate to 10. This makes addition and subtraction easier.

Can I use ten frames for numbers bigger than 10?

Yes! You can use two ten frames to show numbers like 12 or 15. One frame is full, and the other shows the extra.

How can I make my own ten frames?

You can draw them on paper, use counters or buttons, or print them from online. You can also use a 10-sided die to decide how many counters to place.

Are ten frames used in school?

Yes! Many schools use ten frames to teach number sense and early addition and subtraction skills.