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Khan Academy Kids maths: early counting

Use age-appropriate, adult-approved play examples to use playful characters and stories for counting and number sense.

Quick answer

Early counting in Khan Academy Kids maths helps children learn to count objects, understand number order, and build number sense through fun, play-based activities that use characters, stories, and interactive games.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will understand how to count objects in a sequence, match numbers to quantities, and use playful stories and games to build early number sense. Success signs:
  • You can count up to 20 objects in a line or group.
  • You can match a number word to a group of objects.
  • You can use a story or game to help you count and understand numbers.
  • You can explain how counting helps you know how many things you have.

Why this matters

Counting is the first step in understanding numbers and maths. It helps children know how many toys they have, how many cookies are in a jar, or how many friends are playing. When you count, you are building a strong foundation for addition, subtraction, and all future maths. In Khan Academy Kids maths, counting is made fun through stories and play, so children don’t just memorise numbers – they understand what they mean.

How it works

Counting is about matching one number to one object. You say the number names in order: one, two, three, four, five, and so on. Each number tells you how many objects there are. The last number you say tells you the total. For example, if you count 5 apples, you say “one, two, three, four, five” and you know there are five apples. The more you play with counting, the better you get at it.

Examples you can see

Here are some ways to count objects in everyday life:
  • Counting toys: If you have 4 teddy bears, count them one by one: “One teddy, two teddy, three teddy, four teddy.”
  • Counting steps: When climbing stairs, count each step: “One, two, three, four, five.”
  • Counting snacks: If you have 6 crackers, count them as you eat them: “One, two, three, four, five, six.”
  • Counting animals in a story: In a story, there are 3 bunnies and 2 birds. Count them together: “One, two, three, four, five.”

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: The Magical Counting Garden You are a brave explorer in a magical garden. Every time you walk to a new flower bed, you must count the flowers. You start with 1 flower, then 2, then 3, and so on. Your mission is to count all the flowers in 5 different flower beds.
  • 1st flower bed: 3 flowers
  • 2nd flower bed: 5 flowers
  • 3rd flower bed: 2 flowers
  • 4th flower bed: 4 flowers
  • 5th flower bed: 6 flowers
Now, add them all together: 3 + 5 + 2 + 4 + 6 = ? You found a treasure chest! But you must count the coins inside. There are 10 coins in the chest. How many coins are there in total now? (3 + 5 + 2 + 4 + 6 + 10 = ?)

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Counting the same object twice or skipping one.
    Why it happens: Children are still learning to match one number to one object.
    Fix: Use your finger to touch each object once as you count.
  • Mistake: Not knowing which number is the last one.
    Why it happens: Children might count but forget to say the final number.
    Fix: Always say the last number when you finish counting.
  • Mistake: Counting with no order.
    Why it happens: Children may count randomly or not follow a line.
    Fix: Count in a line or group, starting from one side.

Parent and carer guide

Counting is a skill that grows with play and repetition. Here are 5 ways you can help your child:
  1. Count everything: Count toys, steps, or snacks together. “How many crayons are in the box?”
  2. Use stories: Make up a story where you count characters or items. “There were 3 birds on the tree, and 2 flew away.”
  3. Play games: Use board games or apps like Khan Academy Kids that include counting. Let your child be the one to count the moves.
  4. Be patient: If your child skips a number, gently guide them back. Don’t say “no, that’s wrong” – say “let’s try again.”
  5. Use real-life moments: Count while walking, cooking, or shopping. “We need 5 bananas.”

Practice questions

  1. Count 7 stars. How many stars are there?
  2. There are 4 apples. How many apples are there?
  3. Count 9 blocks. What number do you say last?
  4. There are 6 toys. Count them. What number do you say last?
  5. How many fingers are on one hand?
Answers:
  1. 7 stars
  2. 4 apples
  3. 9
  4. 6
  5. 5 fingers

FAQ

What is counting in early maths?

Counting is saying number names in order and matching each number to one object. It helps children understand how many things there are.

Why is counting important for young children?

Counting helps children understand numbers and quantities. It builds a strong base for addition, subtraction, and more advanced maths later on.

How can I help my child count at home?

You can count objects together, play counting games, tell stories that involve numbers, and use everyday moments like walking or cooking to count.

Can counting be fun?

Yes! In Khan Academy Kids maths, counting is part of stories, songs, and games. When counting is playful, children learn better and enjoy it more.

What age should children be able to count to?

By age 5, most children can count to 20. By age 6, they can count to 100 or more with support.